Steve Hughes Plans Bike Ride and Comedy Show for Charity

Retired U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sergeant Steve Hughes has faced a brutal year medically, but he is still preparing to ride more than 300 miles to support wounded service members.

Hughes recently underwent surgery that removed approximately 10 inches of his colon and suffered eight strokes, leaving him with aphasia and weakness on his left side. Doctors are also monitoring a hole in his heart with an implanted loop recorder.

Despite those challenges, Hughes plans to participate in the Air Force Memorial to Memorial bicycle ride from September 10 through September 13.

“I’m really glad to be here,” Hughes said during an interview with 92 Moose. “I’m even more glad to be talking.”

The four-day, 333-mile ride begins at the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, and ends at the Air Force Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The event benefits the Wounded Airmen and Guardians Program, which supports wounded, ill and injured members of the Air Force and Space Force.

Hughes has supported the fundraiser for five years, although he was unable to ride last year because of his illness. The event has grown from approximately 75 cyclists during his first year to around 350 riders this year.

As of the morning of his interview, Hughes had raised $10,805 and has consistently ranked among the event’s top fundraisers.

“It doesn’t go to me,” Hughes said. “It goes right to the fundraising effort.”

Supporters who donate at least $5 will also be entered to win a shirt autographed by Maine basketball star and Dallas Mavericks player Cooper Flagg. Each additional $5 donated earns another entry. Hughes plans to draw the winners on September 12.

Hughes is also organizing a comedy fundraiser October 9 at the Blue Sky Lounge in Bangor. The show will feature Hughes and eight other comedians from 7 to 9 p.m., with doors opening at 5:30 p.m.

Tickets cost $20, and all ticket proceeds will go to charity. The venue includes a full bar, food menu and seating for up to 300 people.

Each comedy show ticket also includes a raffle entry for another Cooper Flagg autographed shirt, with additional raffle tickets available at the door.

Hughes may not be able to complete every mile of the ride, but after major surgery, eight strokes and continuing medical uncertainty, reaching the starting line is already a remarkable achievement.

Donation information and comedy show details are available through the 92 Moose website and app.

COMEDY SHOW TIX & DETAILS

WOUNDED AIRMEN & GUARDIANS PROGRAM