After over 2 years in the making Hollie finally got her wheels earlier this month! This new bike has come all the way from Germany and now means she can ride just like all her family and friends!
Tears of happiness were shed on the momentous occasion where Hollie rode independently for the first time. It was such a special moment for her close family and friends to see Hollie achieve this, an activity most kids can enjoy without a second thought.
The Schuchmann Momo Trike (20") is a modifiable bike to support children and young people with a variety of disabilities. Hollie has quite a few of the trunk supports to ensure optimal posture and safety when riding. It uses a multi harness system to ensure there is no chance of her slipping off when riding in the event of fatigue or seizures. Pedals can rotate or be switched to a simple locked in foot rest, if legs are tired and need a rest (although Hollie thinks peddling is fun and always wants to do it!) This trike adapts with the child as their needs change, so more supports can be added on the bike as needed, even as their functional abilities decline which makes certain that it can be used for as long as possible.
It is great as Hollie can ride independently while also allowing parents or caregivers to help with things such as steering or pushing when needed. The bike can be hooked over the parent bike with the right attachment so she can be towed on a long family ride, ensuring she's never left out! Previously Hollie and one parent had to stay at home
The benefit of this piece of equipment goes further than just social inclusion and providing the opportunity to participate in typical childhood experiences. It will also be awesome for strengthening her legs and core, improving her bimanual coordination of both arms and legs, developing her visual motor integration, build up her endurance and improve her balance. All this will help Hollie maintain her physical and cognitive function for as long as possible.
"The laughing and smile on her face when Craig and Maddi came out riding beside her was priceless." says her mum Amanda, talking of when Hollie rode with her dad and sister.
Amanda would like to thank Hollie’s Connect Paediatric Karratha therapy team for all their hard work getting this bike approved through the NDIS and making Hollie and the families dream a reality! This team's incredible work with in-dept reports, the extensive application which linked everything back to Hollie's NDIS goals is what helped get it across the line. Amanda says that despite the long daunting process, the benefits from this equipment is going to be huge for our family so it's worth the perseverance.
The entire family is looking forward to making precious memories and seeing Hollie enjoy many hours of fun on this bike.
