Ella's Amtryke | NDAD

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Ella's Amtryke

Published: Monday, December 16, 2024
NDAD helping other to help themselves
Each year through NDAD’s Adaptive Recreation Grant program, organizations are awarded funds to support adaptive recreation opportunities for people with disabilities. In the spring of 2024, RoughRider AMBUCS of Bismarck was awarded a grant to purchase Amtryke Adaptive Tricycles. According to Kristina Bouley, President of RoughRider AMBUCS, the equipment gives freedom and independence to individuals who would otherwise be unable to ride a bike.

Minot recipient, Ella and her mom Shana Forster of Minot, ND, were elated to get an Amtryke through the program. Shana said her daughter took to the Amtryke almost immediately.  “The first few days we had it, we enjoyed the opportunity to spend time outside as a family. My boyfriend rode his bike and Ella followed. I walked and sometimes ran behind Ella to make sure she stayed on course,” mentioned Shana. “She’s still learning to use the brake. One day, we went to a nearby school parking lot, and she was able to ride freely and race us on our bikes.”

RoughRider AMBUCS’ mission is to provide mobility and independence to individuals with disabilities. The Amtryke therapeutic tricycles the program uses can be adapted in a variety of ways to accommodate riders of all ages, sizes and abilities.

“In addition to riding bike with peers and family, the Amtrykes help people become more independent as they build strength, endurance and range of motion,” states Kristina Bouley of RoughRider AMBUCS.

Shana ordered their Amtryke with waist support and a seatbelt because Ella welcomes the additional support and likes to attach the seatbelt herself. She also ordered a fun flag to attach to the Amtryke as a Christmas gift.  “We cannot wait until next summer when we can use it daily!”

NDAD offers financial assistance for a variety of needs to those who qualify based on NDAD guidelines. Funds may be used for prescription assistance, medical equipment and supplies, accessibility, out-of-town medical travel assistance, recreational activities and more. NDAD also provides grant opportunities to nonprofit agencies, organizations and programs in North Dakota and directly adjacent border communities through the Adpative Recreation Grant and the Gibbens Memorial Grant. Contact the NDAD office nearest you for more information on these and more.