Posted: 11 May, 2022
“Although he had a trike and a balance bike when younger, Oscar had always struggled with bike riding because of his prosthetic leg.
Oscar has been attending Wheels For All family sessions since 2019. Initially he rode a trike and we were also lucky enough to borrow one during the pandemic so he could still use a bike during the time when sessions weren’t able to run.
Since restarting in 2021, we attend sessions most weekends.
We tried a seated hand bike as an alternative and, after getting used to aching arms, he got on with it really well. The hand bike also means he doesn’t need to wear his prosthesis.
Initially Oscar was reluctant to try the new child recumbent bike because he was convinced it wouldn’t work with his prosthetic. After lots of help to adjust everything to his size and plenty of persuasion that it was different, he took off and now it’s his new favourite!
The range of bikes has meant that Oscar can try several different types to find out what works best for him.
It also means that I can often also ride to keep him company on his laps. Since a recumbent or hand bike are both expensive and difficult to transport, these sessions are the only opportunity that Oscar gets to actually ride a bike.
The opportunity has been immeasurable for his confidence and provides an invaluable venue for an outdoor experience that he wouldn’t otherwise have. It’s also an activity where he doesn’t feel hindered and slowed down by his prosthetic leg.
The volunteers are fabulous at knowing the people who attend and the support they might need. They are knowledgeable about the range of bikes available and can recommend what might be suitable. They are also invaluable at providing support and riding companions… Oscar loves to have someone to race against!”
-Oscar’s mum
Download Oscar’s story here.
