The third annual Kingston edition of iCan Bike was held from July 8-12 and it was another successful and inspiring week! Thirty determined children and youth, diagnosed with cerebral palsy, autism, developmental coordination disorder and other special needs, pushed themselves physically and mentally during daily seventy-five minute sessions.
During iCan Bike, riders gradually gained independence as they improved their balance, developed the endurance to complete several laps in either direction, and learned to navigate between pylons. Riders initially used an adapted bike, while guided and spotted by two to three volunteers walking or running beside them. They progressed through graduated sizes of rollers in place of a back tire, with the goal of riding a two-wheeled bicycle independently by the last day of camp (most riders achieved this goal, and the confident smiles on their faces was priceless!).
An energetic contingent of volunteers was invaluable to the success of iCan Bike. This summer, the majority of volunteers were Canadian Armed Forces members, representing eight Military units. The team also included a Royal Military College of Canada student, staff from KidsInclusive, a local pastor, a Military spouse, a civilian volunteer from the community, and three youth. Volunteers ensured riders’ safety while providing consistent support and motivation, cheering on participants, and challenging them to reach new milestones. This encouragement and connection had a very positive impact! In addition, iCan Shine facilitators complimented the high level of physical fitness and organization among our particular group of volunteers, and how these enhanced the success of the Kingston iCan Bike program.
The program was planned collaboratively by the Kingston Military Family Resource Centre (KMFRC) and KidsInclusive for the third year in a row, and benefitted from significant financial contributions by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 560, GoodLife Fitness and Wood Gundy. Throughout iCan Bike, there was enthusiastic on-site participation by a physiotherapist and a recreation therapist from KidsInclusive, as well as two Special Needs Inclusion Workers from the KMFRC; the latter were also responsible for recruiting and supporting volunteers for this event.
