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patient-storySummer 2023 The freedom of riding a bike is an unforgettable joy. It’s a freedom Chris Rodelle thought he had lost, due to a rare and progressive genetic disease that severely affects his coordination and movement. Through Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers (SASC), the 26-year-old was able to regain this joy and resume a very special pastime — taking a bike ride with his dad. A longtime participant in Spaulding’s Adaptive Sports programming, Chris has experienced our dedication to modifying equipment and creating an inclusive environment for people of all abilities. His favorite activity is mountain biking, though his set-up required that he be tethered to another rider. Seeing Chris’s independence decline as his condition progressed, the SASC team got to work on a solution to help him get his freedom back. Thanks to generous donations and through collaborations with multiple companies, we added a bike to our fleet with a full quad set-up, which gives a person who is unable to use their arms or legs the ability to cycle independently. On his first day using this special bike, Chris rode almost five miles. And this time, his dad rode right alongside him — because now Chris was too fast for him to keep

Meet Chris Rodelle

patient-story
Chris on a path in the woods on his modified bicycle.

Chris’s First Ride: The Power of Adaptive Sports

Summer 2023

The freedom of riding a bike is an unforgettable joy. It’s a freedom Chris Rodelle thought he had lost, due to a rare and progressive genetic disease that severely affects his coordination and movement. Through Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers (SASC), the 26-year-old was able to regain this joy and resume a very special pastime — taking a bike ride with his dad.

A longtime participant in Spaulding’s Adaptive Sports programming, Chris has experienced our dedication to modifying equipment and creating an inclusive environment for people of all abilities. His favorite activity is mountain biking, though his set-up required that he be tethered to another rider. Seeing Chris’s independence decline as his condition progressed, the SASC team got to work on a solution to help him get his freedom back.

Thanks to generous donations and through collaborations with multiple companies, we added a bike to our fleet with a full quad set-up, which gives a person who is unable to use their arms or legs the ability to cycle independently. On his first day using this special bike, Chris rode almost five miles. And this time, his dad rode right alongside him — because now Chris was too fast for him to keep up on foot. “This feels like when I used to ride my dirt bike!” said Chris as he experienced the pleasure of riding independently again. But it was really his smile that spoke volumes.

For those with a disability or recovering from an illness or injury, exercise can be truly life-changing. It can speed healing, improve physical and emotional health, and provide connection and community. Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers have been dedicated to providing people of every ability unparalleled opportunities to participate in a wide variety of athletic and recreational activities. With generous philanthropic support, we have been able to purchase specialized equipment to meet the unique needs of all our participants.

Imagine the Possibilities

At a time when scientific advancements can help make the impossible possible, an investment in rehabilitation medicine has never been more necessary — or more promising.

Your gift to Spaulding can make a real difference... starting now.

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