However, with the help of the local community in Steinbach, Braiden now has the independence he has so longed for.
$9,000 was needed to purchase an ELF bike, which is a cross between a car and a bike. The local community raised a total of $5,000.
His mother, Annette, told that her son has been reliant on others to get out and about in the rural community. CBC News Manitoba quote her as saying:
“If it wasn’t for everybody he wouldn’t have this bike,” she said. “So we really appreciate it. It’s very life-changing. It’s made a big difference for his self-esteem.”
The bike can be peddled or can run on solar or electric power. So far there have been a few wobbles. such as the battery losing power and the bike did flip onto its side. However, although a little nervous, Braiden values this independence and has started to look for a job.
The original article on the CBC News Manitoba website can be read here