Pedaling with Purpose: Kholson’s Journey on His Adaptive Bike

Three-year-old Kholson received his very own custom adaptive bike from Variety's Mobility Program - and it has opened up a whole new world for him. As the second youngest of nine children, Kholson has spent countless hours watching his brothers and sisters race down the sidewalk on their bikes. Now, thanks to his new wheels, he’s finally right there with them.

Because Kholson relies on a wheelchair for mobility, he has been working hard in physical therapy to learn how to use a gait trainer. His adaptive bike has become a joyful extension of that therapy - helping him build muscle strength, improve coordination, and take meaningful steps toward his dream of walking on his own. And the best part? He gets to experience the pure childhood joy of riding a bike, just like his siblings.

Stories like Kholson’s are the heart of Variety’s mission. We help children living with special needs gain mobility, confidence, and freedom by providing personalized equipment that is often out of reach for families. These life-changing tools open doors, build strength, and help kids participate more fully in their communities. Beyond the smiles, this equipment provides critical physical and therapeutic benefits. But because these items are expensive and rarely covered by insurance, many families simply can’t access them. That’s why we partner with physical therapists across Iowa to identify children who would thrive with a specialized bike or mobility device.

Your support helps make stories like Kholson’s possible — stories of movement, independence, joy, and hope.