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For individuals with disabilities, participating in recreational activities can be a significant challenge. One of the barriers to participation is the lack of accessible equipment, such as bicycles. For Mohamed, an 18-year-old with Autism and Developmental Delay, this was a major hurdle. He had never been able to ride a bike before, which made him feel excluded from community events and recreational activities.

However, thanks to the efforts of Freedom Wheels volunteers, Mohamed received a custom-made bicycle that changed his life forever. The bicycle was specially curated to provide Mohamed with extra support and prevent him from losing balance or coordination while riding. Working closely with Mohamed’s physiotherapist, the Freedom Wheels team was able to design a bike that was tailored to his unique needs.

Mohamed’s mother, Salaam, shared that her son had experienced a lot of language, social, cognitive, and emotional barriers in his life. He had always found it challenging to fit in and participate in activities with his peers. However, since receiving his new Freedom Wheels trike, Mohamed’s quality of life has significantly improved. He is now able to ride with confidence and participate in community events and recreational activities with his friends and family.

What’s more inspiring about Mohamed’s story is that the bike he received was funded by the Dalwood-Wylie Foundation. Mohamed’s family had applied for funding through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), but unfortunately, they were rejected. The rejection would have meant that Mohamed would not have been able to receive a bike without the donation from the Dalwood-Wylie Foundation. This foundation is committed to improving the quality of life of individuals with disabilities, and their support has made a significant impact on Mohamed’s life.

Salaam expressed her gratitude for the Freedom Wheels team’s efforts in providing her son with a life-changing solution, as well as the support of the Dalwood-Wylie Foundation. She stated, “Mohamed’s new wheels are a welcome and much-awaited surprise. He has always been an ‘observer,’ but today, for the first time, he is a ‘participant.’ After waiting for more than 16 years, he can ride like similar-aged peers.”

The benefits of riding a bike for people living with disabilities cannot be overstated. Cycling provides a low-impact cardiovascular workout, improves strength, balance and coordination, and can lead to increased independence and social interaction. Freedom Wheels is committed to providing custom-built bicycles for individuals with disabilities, empowering them with the freedom to ride and participate in activities they might otherwise be excluded from.

This heartwarming story is just one of many success stories from Freedom Wheels. We are committed to providing custom-built bicycles for individuals with disabilities, empowering them with the freedom to ride and participate in activities they might otherwise be excluded from. If you or someone you know could benefit from Freedom Wheels’ services, visit our website today to learn more about their program and get your own bike.

At Freedom Wheels, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy the freedom and independence that comes with riding a bike. With a range of custom-built bicycles and dedicated team of volunteers, we’re making that dream a reality for countless individuals across Australia.

Want to learn more about Freedom Wheels or get your own bike? Visit our freedom wheels website today! https://freedomwheels.org.au/