In May 2007 McMains Children's Develomental Center partnered with Tiger Cycling Foundation for a new Program called “Wheels to Succeed.”  This program was developed to be an ongoing fund raising event in which all the proceeds go towards purchasing adapted three wheeled cycles for children with physical disabilities.  Since our first Adapted Bike Demonstration day in June 2007 we have grown to holding three separate biking events a year to promote cycling for children with physical disabilities and has provided 32 children with adapted bikes.

Children with disabilities often miss out on social and physical  activities that most of us take for granted, like riding a bicycle.  Most children with disabilities sit back and watch their siblings or friends play freely outside on bicycles in the neighborhood.  With the use of adapted three wheeled cycles, children who are not even able to walk have the opportunity to ride a bike with their peers and family members.  The therapists at McMains Children’s Developmental Center see children take their first ride every day at the clinic, and it is amazing!  The thrill of seeing their huge grins when riding an adaptive cycle for the first time and realizing they have a new found freedom to move around, is priceless.

Not only is riding a bicycle a fun and activity for children of all ages, it offers significant health benefits for children with disabilities:   

1.                  Cycling movement is similar to walking, facilitating the hip, knee and ankle to                         extend.

2.                  Physical Activity- Increases gross motor control while strengthening and                               maintaining range of motion throughout extremities.

3.                  Exercise- Aerobic capacity and endurance are increased.

4.                  Health- Ventilation and respiration are improved.

5.                  Social Skills- Creates a lifetime leisure activity with health and self-esteem                             benefits.

Ranging in price from $2500-$4000, these adaptive cycles are not easily obtained by families.  It is important for every child to have the opportunity to ride on a daily basis  at home for the social and health benefits, not to mention it is FUN!  Join us in our efforts to provide a bike for all kids with disabilities and make dreams come true.

Help make a dream come true and fund a bike for a child with physical disabilities, give each child ...WHEELS TO SUCCEED!

The five children who received bikes through proceeds of the 2009 "No Such Thing As Impossible" Wheels to Succeed Bike Ride.