Special-needs kids get adaptive bikes

Local special-needs children and their families got a gift Monday when adaptable bikes were awarded to four families at Snake River Landing in Idaho Falls.

The Bike for Kids event is now in its fifth year.

It was started by the parents of a young boy named Issac with spina bifida. His parents received an adaptable bike from the Children with Disabilities Foundation. They saw how happy Isaac was when he was able to ride alongside his siblings and friends instead of watching them.

Local families said they are touched to have such a caring community to help their children.

“It was so exciting,” said Calyn Petersen, whose family received a bike. “Our kids have been through so much. It’s something so exciting to see someone do something so nice and put a smile on her face. So it’s just fun to be able to go on family bike rides and let her participate and have her think she’s really cool by pedaling and stuff.”

The event was the kick-off for the annual Bikefor Kids fundraiser this Saturday. All proceeds go to providing new adapted bikes for special-needs children all over Idaho.

The Bikefor Kids Idaho event includes 100-, 63-, 25- and 15-mile courses. There are also 2- and 4-mile family rides.

You can find a full list of events at http://www.bikeforkidsidaho.com.