Cruising one year later: Young Iowan gaining strength with each ride on specialized bike
Five-year-old Briggs regularly hits the trail at his favorite park with the help of his specialized three-wheel bike.
"He absolutely adores it," his dad, Tim Alberts, said.
Briggs was born with a gene mutation and gray matter heterotopia. It's resulted in low muscle tone on the right side of his body.
"He goes to a physical therapist and he was riding a bike there. This same three-wheeled model that he got through the Variety, and he absolutely loved it," Alberts said.
Briggs' family applied for one just like it through the Variety's Mobility Program. At last year's Principal Charity Classic, he received a gift that changed his world. He was given a new specialized bike all his own, valued at $3,590. It was built just for him and his needs. Made possible thanks to Principal Financial Group and longtime supporters Sally and Carl Harris. Since 2007, the PCC has donated $1.65 million to Variety — the Children's Charity of Iowa.
"It was awesome to see the smile on his face," Alberts said.
And you can still see that smile one year later. Not only is this the physical activity he needs to help stay healthy, it also gives him the freedom to just be a kid.
"He's been working on his balance, working on his strength," Alberts said. "This allows him to ride bikes with his brother and his friends."
Briggs is the youth champion this year at the PCC representing Variety. He'll be recognized during the opening ceremony Friday, May 30.
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