Help Luke get a bike for his birthday!

Luke was born a normal, healthy baby. At 7 months old, in a moment of horror, he suffered a non-accidental traumatic brain injury that completely changed his life. He became a spastic quadriplegic (cerebral palsy). He also suffered from a cardiac arrest and hydrocephalus. He became Trach and GTube dependent and began to have seizures, scoliosis, vision impairment, global developmental delay, sleep apnea, and both hips were pulled out of socket. At this time, he was thrust into foster care, but was placed in a long-term care facility. Luke grew up not knowing what love was, not knowing how to communicate, and lived his life in fear and confusion.

I adopted Luke when he was 4 years old. I was told at that time that Luke would never be able to do anything. He would never be able to communicate or understand the world around him. He hated to be touched or held and would pretend to sleep so he would be left alone. BUT GOD!! Defying all odds and surrounded with love, Luke began coming out of his shell. He now attends public school and is in 1st grade. He uses an eye gaze tablet to communicate (he also uses it to tell jokes, play games, and participate in school and therapy). He is a stubborn, funny boy that loves to be held and tickled. He loves playing with his sister and cousins. He loves to play outside, he loves the pool, and he loves to bike. He has even joined a little league t-ball team and enjoys “running” (more liked being wheeled around) the bases.

Luke fights everyday to do things the rest of us take for granted. He has fought and succeeded in having his Trach removed, to be able to breath like a healthy boy. He has fought through two hip surgeries to put both of his hips back in place, allowing him to use a stander to help strengthen his legs and teach him how to stand. He fights to be able to lift his arms and use his hands to do things. He is reliant on people to push his wheelchair or carry him in order to move around. He is unable to hold his head up for long periods of time, nor can he sit up by himself. He fights the sleepiness that comes from his numerous medications that help keep him alive. But, through it all, Luke is a happy kid! He giggles, squeals, and laughs. Everyday he is able to jump another hurdle and prove to world that he can do all things through Christ who strengthens him. Luke’s journey is far from over and he has many great things to come!

Because of his disabilities, he is unable to ride a normal bike. However, thanks to the amazing physical therapists at Brooks Rehab, he is learning how to ride a special bike. This bicycle gives Luke the support he needs to remain sitting safely and allows him to focus on using his legs to pedal. He absolutely loves it! He would love to have a bike at home so he can play with his cousins and sibling. It will also allow him to have some semblance of independence and enable him to go where he wants to, as most 7-year-olds want. Thank you for helping us get Luke this special adapted bicycle!!