At last year's Spirits of Spring event, five-year-old Gwendolyn received her specialized bike! This bike is not only fun for her to ride, but it has allowed her to enjoy the outdoors and strengthen her legs and hips.
I wish I could express with words alone how it feels to be able to take my daughter outside on her bike. There are so many things that she can’t do… she can’t walk, she can’t see, she can’t hear, she can’t sit, she can’t eat by mouth… but she can ride a bike - she can feel the breeze on her face. She can feel her legs move. She can hold on to the handle bars. She can feel the sun on her face. And all of these things make her smile and bring her joy. She can do these things because of the generosity of people who have never had the great pleasure of meeting her!
Gwendolyn's mom, Natalie
Variety helps children living with special needs gain mobility, confidence, freedom, independence, and the chance to join in the life of their community by providing funding for specialized bicycles, gait trainers, standers, mobile standers, specialized strollers, and more to families in need. What started as a program offering specialized bikes has expanded to fit the growing needs of children in our communities.
In addition to seeing the smiles on children’s faces, these mobility pieces offer both physical and therapeutic benefits. Unfortunately, these items are cost prohibitive to some families and are rarely covered by insurance. That’s why we work with physical therapists throughout the state to identify children who would greatly benefit from a specialized bike or other piece of mobility equipment.
This year's Spirits of Spring event will once again feature a specialized bike presentation to a child living with special needs. Purchase your tickets today to join us on May 15 to witness this special joy and raise funds to help more children like Gwendolyn, and taste the Spirits of Spring by sampling wine, beer, liquor, and appetizers from local vendors.
