Former Quantum House guest raises over $17,000 with 6-day cross-country ride

Jess Jodoin takes to the road during her fundraising ride in support of Quantum House. [Photo by Jess Rips]

A South Florida motorcyclist who relied on Quantum House after her daughter’s premature birth raised $17,560 for the organization by completing a record-breaking ride through all 48 contiguous states in six days.

Jess Jodoin, known on social media as “Jess Rips,” rode a 2025 Indian Challenger more than 7,000 miles from Vermont to Washington, becoming the fastest woman to complete the route on that model of motorcycle. She recently presented the money she raised to Quantum House President and CEO Greg Quattlebaum.

Twenty-two years ago, Jodoin and her family stayed at Quantum House while her daughter, born prematurely at just 2 pounds, 1 ounce, received lifesaving medical care nearby.

“Quantum House gave me a place to stay just steps from the hospital,” Jodoin says.

“They gave me meals when I couldn’t think about feeding myself, and, more than anything, they gave me a community of people who understood exactly what I was going through. That kind of support changes you, and it’s something I’ve never forgotten.”

Jess Jodoin displays the donation check presented to Quantum House following her fundraising ride. [Photo by Quantum House]

The donation will help Quantum House provide lodging, meals and support to families whose children are undergoing medical treatment in Palm Beach County.

Completing the cross-country route required Jodoin to average more than 1,100 miles a day while contending with shifting weather conditions. She documented the journey in real time on social media, drawing national attention to Quantum House and encouraging followers to donate. She exceeded her fundraising goal.

“Jess transformed an extraordinary personal achievement into meaningful support for families facing pediatric medical crises,” Quattlebaum says. “Quantum House was here for Jess and her daughter during one of the most difficult times in their lives, and 22 years later she has brought that experience full circle. Her determination and generosity will help ensure other families have a place to call home when they need it most.”

Jess Jodoin, joins representatives of Quantum House during the presentation of a $17,560 donation raised through her 48-state motorcycle ride. [Photo by Quantum House]

Founded in 2001 on the campus of St. Mary’s Medical Center, Quantum House has grown into a 30-suite home serving families from across the country and around the world. It is the only pediatric health care hospitality home of its kind between Orlando and Miami. It offers lodging, meals, family programming and a supportive community. Families stay an average of six weeks.

For more information, visit www.quantumhouse.org.