Rain Can't Dampen Spirits

Luis Lopez is all smiles as he tools around on a hand bike during an event put on by one of the County Health and Human Services Agency's Medical Therapy Unit.Rain did not dampen the spirits of San Diego county's newest hand cyclists. The County of San Diego California Children Services’ Vista Medical Therapy unit hosted a hand cycling day at Mance Buchannan Park in Oceanside for the children and families that they serve recently.

Even though the weather was uncooperative, it did not hamper the children from experiencing the joys of riding a bicycle in the park. For some of these children, this was their first opportunity to ride a hand cycle and participate in a physical activity with their whole family.

Mothers, fathers, brothers, and sisters all participated in an exciting and healthy outdoor activity. Inspired by the County’s Health Initiative, this event exposed clients and their families to new alternatives for healthy activities for the disabled.

Intrepid Equipment and San Diego Adaptive Sports Foundation loaned the children the hand cycles which are adapted to accommodate their physical impairments.  The children enjoyed riding around the park with new friends and their families as well as learning cycling skills, safety and etiquette. It was a perfect way to spend a not so perfect spring break day. The event was organized by senior physical therapist Sarah Barnes.

From left to right: Vista therapy staff: Jan Jewell -Brown, senior occupational therapist; Sarah Barnes, senior physical therapist ; Paul Katsaros, supervisor; Alisha Nash, physical therapist.