TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - Riding a bicycle is something most kids do growing up. And one local little boy from Sopchoppy wants exactly that.
Even though Hank has conditions that prevent him from moving on his own, he's hoping the community will help him get a special bike.
Hank just turned 3-years-old and has several conditions which prevent him from doing anything independently. Hank's mom, Samantha Isaacs, says he loves watching people bike around, especially his older sisters.
She wants Hank to be able to take part in the fun.
"Just because he can't walk or sit on his own, I don't think that he should loose out on having a bicycle. This bicycle will provide the upper body support that he needs and help him be a normal 3-year-old for a little while each day," said Isaacs.
Isaacs says Hank was only 3-months-old when he lost hearing in one ear, leading doctors to discover an infection.
A few months later, the infection started causing vision impairment and severe problems with his muscle control.
Isaacs says not only will the bike make Hank feel like any other little boy, it will also help condition his muscles.
"The bicycle will be self-propelled. He can move it himself or we can push him and move it and it will still stretch those muscles and gets those leg muscles moving," said Isaacs.
The handles will be closer to his body so one day he can steer it himself. The peddles move as the bike is pushed, so even if he can't do it himself, it's working his muscles.
The problem is that this special bike is upwards of $4,000.
Hank's GoFundMe page has only raised a quarter of the amount needed.
That's why the Bicycle House in Tallahassee threw a benefit bike ride to help Hank get his bicycle.
Isaacs hopes as Hank gets used to the motion of riding the bike, he'll be able to do it on his own.
Until then, Isaacs says she'll take care of the manpower for him.
"He's the light of our lives. He's just an absolute joy. He gives us so much hope. If he can overcome all these obstacles that he's facing, then we can get through our days too," said Isaacs.
Isaacs says the bicycle isn't covered under insurance since it's not considered medically necessary. However, to Hank, and most other little kids, riding a bike is a must.
If you want to donate to help Hank raise money to get his own bike, click here .
