Shane has a neurological condition called Fredricks Ataxia. This condition progressively gets worse over time so Shane does a lot of exercise as he finds this helps with his condition and his mind.
A friend gave Shane an exercise bike so he contacted TAD to see if could be modified for him to use.
Shane wanted TAD to design and build a stand to enable him to use an exercise bike with his arms and shoulders from his wheelchair. As he has limited, unstable upper body movement, it needed to be sturdy.
Local volunteer Tony Sutton designed and built a three legged wooden frame and mounted the bike at the right height so Shane’s knees can fit underneath. He also fixed it to a floor plate which keeps the wheelchair in place and holds the frame stable.
‘The bike is just amazing, it is something that I can do myself and not have to ask anyone for help. I steer my wheelchair into it and off I go. I can exercise whenever I want for as long as I want.’
The unit was set up near Shane’s front window on the advice of his physiotherapist, so he can watch his reflection to ensure he keeps the correct posture.
‘The TAD volunteers are very good. They listen to what I have to say and what I would like to achieve from the projects and aim to make exactly what I need. They are only too happy to come back as many times as needed to make the product work best for me.’ Shane says.
‘I would like to thank the TAD volunteers and especially Tony Sutton for everything they have done for me. It has given me so much independence to be able to use the bike whenever I like, and I have gained so much strength in my arms and shoulders which in turn helps me transfer more easily.’
