An extreme journey, astride vintage motorcycles, along the entire Pan-American Highway. Starting on 12 July, eight motorcyclists will cross the Americas – from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego – to raise funds for Casa sollievo bimbi di Vidas, Lombardy's first paediatric hospice. The goal? To donate at least 1 euro for every kilometre covered, amounting to 33,000 euros to guarantee palliative care for children with incurable illnesses.

The journey along the Pan-American, an adventure born from friendship

The initiative was brought to life by Fabio Costamagna and Cristiano Pelganta, founders of Patina Garage, a workshop specialising in vintage Harley Davidson motorcycles. "They're not modern bikes, they're not bikes for everyone – but they are the bikes we love," the two say in their video appeal. Together with six other riders from across Europe, they will take on one of the longest and most complex road routes on the planet.

But what makes this journey truly special is the reason driving them to set off: Greta, the daughter of their friend Andrea, who was cared for by VIDAS during the most delicate phase of her illness.

33,000 km for Casa sollievo bimbi

"We came to know Casa sollievo bimbi thanks to Andrea Chiaravalli, Greta's father – a truly special little girl who was cared for by Vidas," they explain. "Greta's journey continues for 33,000 km across the three Americas. Support us!"

The team will set off on 12 July from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, tackling first the dreaded Dalton Highway, a remote dirt road. The Harley Davidsons, all more than 50 years old, will require constant maintenance. "It's going to be tough," they admit, "but every difficulty will be faced with the right spirit, because we're doing this for something that matters."

Along the route, which will pass through 20 countries and numerous ecosystems, the magnificent eight will be supported by a van carrying equipment, spare parts and – in a telling detail – 100 kg of pasta, ready to keep the riders physically fuelled. In the United States, other enthusiasts will join the group, turning it into a true solidarity caravan.

How to support the project

"Even just one euro raised for every mile covered will make a real difference," Fabio and Cristiano remind us. Anyone can contribute to the fundraiser in support of Casa Sollievo Bimbi on the dedicated platform: every donation enables VIDAS to continue offering free, skilled and loving care to children facing serious and incurable illnesses.