New Wheels for Atman!

    Atman is a shiny, funny little kid. He loves to be outside exploring and is in need of some equipment to help him get out there. The wheelchair he has is great indoors but is unable to go over gravel, sand, or grass. Even most trails deemed "accessible" are not possible for him to use without an extreme effort.

    We have tried many different kinds of carriers. Besides being extremely uncomfortable for both of us, they leave him a passive witness instead of the active participant that he wants to be. Also, he's 7 and wants to do things on his own!

 To be able to join our friends for a hike or a bike ride without being uncomfortable or feeling like we are slowing everything down will be so liberating and fun.


  
   The GRIT Freedom Chair will fit Atman into his teen years and will help him gain the strength and confidence to hike independently, traverse uneven ground (think Kingston/Rosendale sidewalks!) and stay active as he grows older. He will be able to go on winter walks-even if it there is snow on the road, which is something has not been possible. This chair can even make it across the beach! Plus, the design of the chair helps to prevent the repetitive stress injuries that are common with wheelchair users, especially in children. Check it out here:

https://try.gogrit.us/grit-freedom-chair/



    The cargo bike will allow us to all safely go on bike rides together, and will be an easy option for getting him outdoors on days when he isn't physically up to putting in a lot of work by using his wheelchair. It has an electric assist so we can make it up the hills even when he and his little sister are riding on it together. It holds up to almost 400 lbs, so he will fit on this bike even as an adult. This bike gets great reviews and is well made. We will use it so much!

Check it out here: YUBA Supercargo Bike 


 
    These two items will change the way our family lives, and afford Atman so many more opportunities to explore the beautiful world around him. Being able to say "Yes!" to outdoor invitations from friends will be such an improvement in our lives. There is a very real sense of isolation in living with a disability that can be alleviated by fully being a part of our community and staying active. This will not just benefit Atman, but for the whole family. These items will give us all more freedom of mobility and new ways to enjoy our time together for many years to come.

   This money raised will cover the full expense of the GRIT Freedom Chair and it's safety accessories, a Yuba Electric Cargo bike and it's accessories, and the delivery of both items.

   Like Atman said last week, "This is going to be the best summer of my life so far!"
Thanks for helping to make it happen, we hope to see you out there :)