Cyclist home on LI after 6-week fundraising ride

After six weeks of bicycling, 16 flat tires, and three chain breaks, Sean Flanagan, 40, rode across the lawn of The Ronald McDonald House of Long Island Friday and into the arms of dozens of supporters.

The Huntington Station man's ride, which began in San Francisco on July 4 and took him across the country, was a fundraiser for The Ronald McDonald House in New Hyde Park, which accommodates families whose children are being treated at local hospitals.

"I made it," said Flanagan, bearded and 15 pounds lighter, as he crossed a yellow and red finish line smiling aboard his red Cannondale touring bike. "When the hills got high and the weather was hot, I just thought of the people staying here."

Flanagan, a social worker at Centereach Academic Center of Eastern Suffolk BOCES, said he choose the organization because co-workers have stayed at the house.

He traveled about 80 miles a day, stopping at restaurants along the way for food and drinks, Flanagan said. Throughout the trip, which he made alone, Flanagan slept in a tent he pitched roadside, and documented the sights on Facebook.

People were asked to donate to Flanagan's effort through a page on The Ronald McDonald House's website. He raised about $2,000, according to Matthew Campo, the organization's director of development and communications.

"We wouldn't be able to do what we do without people like Sean," Campo said. "The families of sick children will benefit."

Flanagan is no newcomer to a trip across country by bike. About 20 years ago, he and his best friend, Daniel Allen, of West Sayville, biked across the country for fun. They cycled for about six weeks but made various visits and were on the road for two months, said Allen, there to welcome Flanagan home Friday.

Now married with children, Allen said he couldn't make the latest trip. "I had no doubts that he would make every mile," Allen said.

Flanagan's mother, Mary, of Smithtown, was also among the crowd. She said her son called regularly on his whereabouts, adding: "I think it's wonderful that he got home safe," she said.

Flanagan said he hopes his trip has inspired others. "If you want to do something, you can do it."

About the Ronald McDonald House

Location: 267-07 76th Ave., New Hyde Park

Contact Information: 516-775-5683 or rmhlongisland.org

• Provides temporary overnight residences for families or individuals caring for seriously ill children undergoing medical treatment in area hospitals.