Making a difference in the world--with bikes

The Mark J. Reynolds Memorial Children's First Bicycle Fund, founded in memory of a St. Joseph bicyclist, gives away new bicycles to children. Here is the story of one bicycle they recently gave away:

I believe that all of us, each and everyone would like to make a difference in this world.

This is a story about a young man who has done that, very well and is a great inspiration.

It was only natural to buy bikes for our first two sons, but definitely not for our third. Our son Nathaniel has Down Syndrome. Every single day, we have faced countless challenges and embraced Nathaniel's differences, while facing a sense of sadness as well. It is almost like mourning the loss of a loved one, a parent can no longer hold the same hopes and dreams. Even before his birth, we knew there would be many childhood activities that Nathaniel would be unable to enjoy with his brothers. . . .

Saturday, November 20, 2004, was the happiest day of our lives. After the presentation of the Fund, Nathaniel's name was called to come to the front, it was very emotional for Nathaniel and his family, at the thrill of seeing his shiny blue and silver adaptive bike. It has hand brakes, a wide base with 3 sturdy wheels, straps to secure his feet to the pedals. It was a magical moment to remember for ever, as he climbed on and began pedaling. We heard new laughter that we had never heard before from our son! It is amazing and beautiful to see him cruising down the street, his friends are so happy for him. One even said, now I wish I had Down Syndrome.

We are so grateful to all the people who are honoring, Mark's memory by caring on his holiday tradition. We never would have been able to provide this for him on our own, without Mark's Foundation. Nathaniel might never have been able to ride a bike.

We plan to contribute to their foundation every year, though it may be small, all small donations can carry on together allowing another biker to change another life.

Nathaniel is mostly non-verbal, but since he became a cyclist, he is learning new words. There is no way to put a price on the sense of confidence and achievements that our son has now.

See the full story and photo here.