Step 'n Go is Changing Lives - One Step at a Time

Eric earned his Merit Badge for biking

Eric, 9 has Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita (AMC), a stiffness of one or more joints often linked to incomplete growth of the muscles that move the joints. This limits Eric’s leg and arm strength, but it doesn’t limit his “can do” attitude!

Eric's PT brought the Step 'n Go to the family's attention as she felt it would be a cycle that he could ride. Eric has interior rotation of the shoulders, hyper-extended elbows, and limited strength in his hands to squeeze a brake lever. Physical therapy is essential to help him loosen his joints.

The challenge was to design a steering system Eric could use that didn't require using a hand brake. Using high rise handlebars upside down and backwards, we located the handgrips near Eric's natural hand position. With the stepper pads only 4” off the ground, Eric can easily mount his Step ’n Go and pedal by doing a simple weight shift. For braking, we designed the unique  “Belly Brake”, which Eric operates by leaning on the chest pad.

Eric lives a short distance from us, so we offered to deliver his Step 'n Go and test out our newest adaptation. The adjustable features of the Step 'n Go allowed us to quickly position the seat and handlebars for Eric's safety and comfort. When Eric tried his Step ’n Go for the first time, he engaged the brake and laid rubber on the road. It worked perfectly! As he gradually became more confident, Eric started to ride up the hill where he lives. I asked if he wanted to turn around. “Why would I want to go back?”, he replied. There was a world ahead waiting to be explored!

P.S.      When I phone Eric’s mom to discuss his story, Eric yelled out in the background “tell Stu I earned my Merit Badge by bicycling”.

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