Kentucky Chapter Soliders On Despite Founder's Death

Raymond Elliott, the founder and charismatic leader of the “Ray’s Trykes for Tykes” Friends Chapter in Columbia, KY,  passed away on Sept. 27, 2007 after a short stay in the hospital.

Although he was only affiliated with AMBUCS since June of last year, Elliott quickly earned lots of local media attention for his work with providing AmTrykes to children with disabilities. It became one of his life’s passions and now, thanks to the help of his family and friends, the organization he launched continues to operate. Ray’s wife Maxine, who he married in 1958, now heads the chapter. His son, Adam Elliott, currently serves as the chapter’s vice president.

In one of the final letters Ray wrote to AMBUCS, just weeks before his passing, he described how great it felt to be a member of AMBUCS.

“When we decided to help kids with their home therapy, our son Adam got on the Internet and investigated several (organizations),” he said. “I’m glad we found the right one. It is a pleasure to help these children. A smile from a special child warms the coldest heart.”