Celebrating Jaheim & Loralei!

Here are a few more reasons for you to smile – ENJOY!

14-year old, Jaheim (pictured above surrounded by his family) received his second adaptive bike through Variety at the Capital Area Intermediate Unit last month!

At the presentation, his mom, Camiline shared,

“With other kids, Jaheim uses his bike to have water balloon battlers or to play tag.

When he was born, I was told he would never be able to walk or talk. And, never be able to ride a bike. He’s walking, talking, and riding a bike.

This special bike strengthens his legs in the winter, gives him exercise, and mental relief.”

12-year old Loralei was “over-the-moon” excited when she also received her second adaptive bike, and she was all smiles surrounded by her family and me below.

Before receiving her new adaptive bike, Loralei’s mom, Jenny shared why this was so important for her daughter, by saying,

“I believe getting Loralei a larger version of the adaptive bike it will help to continue to strengthen her legs, core, and agility. She will be able to be included with her sister and friends to ride with them. She loves to be outside and around people.”

Loralei’s grandpa, Mike also shared in his own words what the bike means for his granddaughter, by saying,

“This bike is freedom because she always either has her poles or the chair. When she’s in the bike, it’s absolute freedom for her.”

KDKA’s Briana Smith joined us to share in the joy of the day, and she featured Loraeli in this beautiful story: https://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2021/09/20/allegheny-county-kids-adaptive-bicycles/

Variety’s equipment programs are helping kids like Jaheim and Loralei THRIVE, and we’re so grateful that you can share in their joy with us!