Bike rides, beach days, trips to the park – these are all staples of childhood that children with disabilities want to experience. They want to be active and mobile like other children in their communities.
But the durable medical equipment necessary to give these kids the independence they desire is often too expensive for many families. And insurance isn’t always the answer – in many cases, devices like adaptive bikes and special needs strollers are denied, despite their immense physical and therapeutic benefits, because insurance doesn’t consider them to be necessary items.
This is where Variety-the Children’s Charity of Wisconsin steps in. Variety helps kids gain mobility, confidence, freedom, independence and the chance to join in the life of their community by providing funding for walkers, wheelchairs, specially-designed adaptive bikes, strollers, and other devices to families with the most need.
In July, Variety and Independence First hosted an Adaptive Bike Day for kids with physical disabilities. Variety gave away 18 bikes to these special kids, which will lead to a lifetime of healthy habits and increased mobility. The cost of these bikes ranged from $300 to $5,000 each.
Our partner, Independence First, brought the Journey of Hope bike team, Biking Buddies, and Milwaukee recreation to allow for a greater range of experiences for the 200 attendees. Former U.S. Silver Medalist, Brent Emery, of Emery’s Third Coast Cycling , helped determine what type of bike would work best for each child, and made sure everyone got the bike that fit them!
Check out the video above to see footage of this beautiful day.
May 30, 2011
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