Crystal had Arnold Chiari Malformation. Her cerebellum was identified as falling down 28.6 mm into her neck. This caused her to fall on a consistent basis. She began to drop things and increasingly lost coordination. She underwent two brain surgeries to correct the issue. She is on long term disability, can no longer drive and dependent on her spouse. She has severe balance issues and is homebound. She is still unstable and has severe balance issues today. Her physician has cleared her for a recumbent trike. A recumbent trike would give Crystal a sense of freedom and independence.

Hope For Trauma plans on riding with her along with Spokes Fighting Strokes to show her how to ride safely.

From Shut-In to Freedom

UPDATE!!!! April 20, 2015

Thanks to Florida Freewheeler generosity, and the community response from Crystals

http://www.gofundme.com/p75gd8

We have now reached our goal!

Crystal is being fitted for a new trike! She is still raising funds for lights and extra items to fit on her new trike

Thank you to Sun Cyclery for helping us reach our goal!!! We couldn’t be more thrilled for her.

Recumbent and Recovery Presentation at the 2015 Aging in America Conference

Catherine Brubaker, MSL and Eddee Edson, MSD will be presenting at the 2015 Aging in America Conference.
This session will explore mobility options beyond the wheelchair and walker. Proven alternatives to existing assisting devices, such as recumbent trikes, that contribute to staying fit and provide an increased sense of freedom, independence and overall sense of well-being will be shared.
Objectives
1. Define documented research showing the benefits of continued activity in the aging process.
2. Contrast the benefits of recumbent trike riding vs. wheelchair or walkers options for transportation and mobility.
3. List current examples of people that have discovered the recumbent trike for “continuing the adventure”. People that have ridden across the country raised awareness and continue to break the old view of disabilities.
4. Analyze opportunities within government (recreation departments), hospitals, therapy departments, senior living communities, senior centers where the introduction and exploration of riding a recumbent trike may be valuable and beneficial for people to age-in-place and continue activities that enhance their lives.
5. Describe opportunities for providing the recumbent trike as a mobility/transportation option.
For event details visit Recumbent and Recovery ASA Presentation.

Chicago, Illinois
2015-03-23-2015-03-25