COLUMBUS, Ohio — Thirty-six central Ohio children received a holiday surprise Thursday after they were gifted brand new customized adaptive bikes.
When Ann and Tom DiMarco learned that there was a waiting list to receive a bike from Adaptive Sports Connection, they generously donated the money needed to clear the waiting list and get them all. Within a week, the Adaptive Sports Connection team made contact with all of the families to let them know their bikes were fully paid for.
This was the company's largest Bikes To Go giveaway ever.
"It's such tremendous joy and we're so thankful for where we are today. It just feels so good," said CEO of Adaptive Sports Connection Sharon Bucey.
All the kids who received their new custom bikes had the opportunity to gather on Thursday and give them a test ride for the very first time.
"When they say it's always better to give than receive, we're fortunate to be able to do this with kids and just to see the smiles on the kids as they walk around. It's just a fabulous feeling," said Tom.
Adaptive Sports Connection is an organization dedicated to serving children, veterans, and adults with disabilities through outdoor and therapeutic recreation and education. Each year, their Bike to Go program helps children and adults own their own bike – specifically tailored to meet their needs and abilities.
On average, a standard bike is $2,500-$3,000 and can go as high as $12,000.
📺 10TV+ is available for free: Stay up to date on what's happening in your community with a 24/7 live stream and on demand content from 10TV — available on Roku, Amazon Fire TV and Apple TV.
📧 Subscribe to the Wake Up CBUS newsletter featuring the best stories, personally curated by members of our staff and delivered via email by 6 a.m., Monday through Friday.