The weather may have been sweltering the day of the Leonard Strawberry Festival, but that didn’t stop five-year-old Cody Pearson from riding his new bike in the parade with pride.
This wasn’t your regular run-of-the-mill bike, though.
The Addison Township resident was one of 10 children to receive a bicycle built for the disabled through the Beaumont Hospital Pediatric Rehabilitation Bike Day, held July 14.
Cody was born with a non-malignant tumor on his spine that left his legs partially paralyzed, forcing him to wear braces on both legs.
He hadn’t been able to ride a bike until now.
The bright red bike, which costs approximately $1,500, was paid for by the Children’s Miracle Network of Birmingham and features training wheels, a direct-drive pedal system, a seatbelt, a backrest, horn, lights and, of course, a helmet.
Depending on specific needs, bikes are modified or customized for each child.
The bike also features a hand brake on the back where dad, Bruce, can hold onto if needed.
‘It makes it so he’s more mobile,? Pearson said about his son’s bike.
When Cody received the bike at the Royal Oak hospital, Pearson said the technicians had to run behind his son to try to keep up because he was so excited about his new bike.
‘He was laughing and giggling, like it was a game,? he said.
When Cody eventually grows out of his bike, Pearson said Beaumont will equip him with a new one and then the bike will become another child’s joy.
According to Beaumont’s website, since the inception of Bike Day three years ago, 95 children have been given bikes.
To be considered for the program, children must have a prescription and be referred by their physical therapist, occupational therapist or doctor.
Those who are current or past patients of Beaumont are given first priority.
Pearson said he and Cody are ‘very grateful? for everyone’s help in making Cody’s dreams come true.