NEW YORK – A new adaptive cycling program in the Bronx is giving cyclists with physical disabilities a new outlook on life.
The free program is run in partnership with Achilles International and Citi Bike in St. Mary’s Park and across the city, with all bikes provided on-site and adapted to riders’ needs.
“At Achilles, we welcome all disabilities,” said Ariel Rausin, international chapter director for Achilles International. “To be able to do this training every week in all five boroughs of the city is truly life-changing.”
All riders have to do is participate, and while some think this is the hardest part, participants say taking part in the program is liberating and gives them a whole new perception and outlook on life.
Athletes with disabilities who would like to participate and others who would like to volunteer can find more information and register online at achillesinternational.org/nyc .
“We have to move forward.”
For Nelson Ortega, there is no challenge he can’t take on, even when he encounters the biggest obstacles. Before his life changed, he used to cycle 80 miles every day.
“I lost my leg to diabetes three years ago,” Ortega said. “Without this program, I might have become an alcoholic or committed suicide.”
Ortega says he got his life back the moment he started riding a special bike, which he pedals using his hands and arms.
“I’m a rookie, but I’m not giving up. I’m still riding and I’ll keep riding until the day I drop,” Ortega said.
“Before I used to just come and watch, but little by little I got more involved. I wanted to be a part of it,” said Bronx resident and participant Jem Sharmon Still.
Having lost a leg to COVID-19 in 2020, she says that moment taught her the beauty of life.
“I developed blood clots in my legs and had to be put on a ventilator,” she said. “I never should have had this opportunity. I could have ended up in a vegetative state. I could have died… It’s hard sometimes, but you have to move forward.”
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