From a press release:

From the Pacific on an Atlantic, and Back, Amputee Rides to Raise Funds for the Legal Center for People with Disabilities

The right and freedom to travel without fear inspire Joe Nolfo’s 15,500-mile round-the-country moto journey

Woodstock, GA (July 22, 2004) – Florida native Joe Nolfo lost his left leg during a hit-and-run accident in 1982. Since then he has dedicated his life to raising funds for a number of charities by continually testing his endurance. From setting unofficial long-distance swimming world records to a 159-day cross-country wheelchair trek in 1997, Nolfo works tirelessly to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining every American’s freedom to travel without fear. For his latest adventure, a 15,500-mile journey aboard an Aprilia Atlantic 500 scooter, Nolfo also hopes to raise funds for The Legal Center for People with Disabilities, a non-profit agency that promotes education and research for people with physical challenges.

Nolfo’s travel route is taking him up the Atlantic coast to New York City, through New England, then across the Unites States to the Pacific coast. He’ll trace the coastline to Los Angeles, then head east on a southern route, back to his home state of Florida. Nolfo expects to arrive back in Oldsmar, Florida in mid-October. Along the way, he is meeting thousands of supporters and spreading a message of determination and optimism.

“Motorcycling is synonymous with the freedom of the open road, and the freedom to travel that road is every individual’s right” says Nolfo. “Neither threats of terrorism nor a disability should prevent any American from fully enjoying mobility throughout this great country of ours.”

Anyone wishing to show support for Joe on his “Great American Ride” can make a donation by contacting The Legal Center for People with Disabilities and Older People, a non profit organization established in 1976 in Denver, CO at 1-800-288-1376 or at www.thelegalcenter.org. The Legal Center is well known for the New Handbook on Special Education Rights by Randy Chapman, the Center’s Director of Legal Services. This self-help publication is so loved by parents of children with disabilities that they call it the “Special Ed Bible.”

“Joe Nolfo’s efforts reflect the values of empowerment, self-determination, independence and inclusion, which we embrace as an organization,” said Mary Anne Harvey, The Legal Center’s Executive Director.