Each year, our Center for Children's Rehabilitation,
in partnership with the Beaumont Foundation and Children's Miracle
Network Hospitals, brightens the lives of around 100 children who are living with a
disability by giving them a custom bike that meets their special needs
and by giving them a way to live their lives as enjoyably as possible.
Bikes customized for children living with a disability cannot be
found at local bike shops or big box retailers. Depending on specific
needs, bikes are modified or customized for each child. Some are even
pedaled by hand.
Each May, patients are fitted for adapted bikes that they will
receive in July for free. Once everyone has a good feel for the bike,
helmets are fitted and adjustments are made and then it's time to load
up the biked and take them home.
Bicycles for children with special needs can be expensive. These
special bikes can cost from $1,300 to $3,000, and in some cases can cost
as much as $6,000. Insurance doesn't cover them. Consequently, many
families cannot afford to purchase the custom bikes by themselves.
Fund raising efforts
for Bike Day are ongoing, as each year there are increasingly more
children who apply for a customized bike. The program is always seeking
contributions, as it relies heavily on the donations and goodwill of the
community
Although there are limited funds, the benefits are priceless.
Benefits of Beaumont's Bike Day program include:
- building endurance and muscle strength
- improving disassociation of both upper and lower extremities
- participating in an age-appropriate, skill activity with their peers
- being included in a great family activity
The children are selected based on their need and how long they have
been waiting. To be considered for the program, children must have a
prescription and be referred by their physical or occupational therapist
or doctor. Those who are current or past patients of Beaumont are given
first priority.