Being the parent of a child with special needs can be challenging, but fulfilling.

And that's the case for 6-year-old Eliana Bolthouse of Portland, Michigan who was diagnosed with a rare brain malfunction called Lissencephaly at nine months old. If you're wondering why you haven't heard of this- it's not that common. One in 100,000 people are born with it, and only 20% of those cases are non-genetic, like Eliana’s case.

Courtesy of the Great Bike Giveaway
Courtesy of the Great Bike Giveaway
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Eliana has used a special bike for years that allows her to get out with her family and enjoy some of Michigan's incredible bike trails. Until recently, when she outgrew her bike.

That's when Eliana's mom found the great bike giveaway, an organization that helps families seek the funding and help to get adaptive bikes like Eliana needs. Her mom signed them up for the contest, and posted this statement on the page

Thank you for your interest in helping Eliana win an adaptive tandem bike! Our family loves riding all of the amazing Michigan bike trails. Unfortunately, Eliana has outgrown our bike trailer and is now no longer able to participate in family bike rides. We searched the internet to find a bike that might work for her but were discouraged at the extremely high price of any bike that might accommodate her. It felt completely out of our reach, until I found The Great Bike Giveaway which could help us WIN an adaptive tandem bike, and allow Eliana to be just like any other kid and enjoy bike rides with her family. We appreciate your support!

What is an adaptive bike?

An adaptive bike is any bicycle that is modified to help the user. Sometimes they have extra wheels or need specific modifications that will allow them to ride no matter their situation.

The Great Bike Giveaway
The Great Bike Giveaway
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The specific bike listed on Eliana's page is a tandem bike, with this description: "For being a bike built for two, the Tandem is both lightweight and easy-to-control. The Cable-Actuated Rear Steering™ system allows the driver to make precise maneuvers and turn sharply from the back. The front rider, whether visually or physically challenged, can still enjoy all the benefits of cycling, including reciprocal movement of the legs and a fresh breeze in their face."

How can I help Eliana Bolthouse get her bike?

It's simple, they don't need donations or for you to show up anywhere. They just need your votes! Eliana's in the lead currently, but the contest isn't over. If she wins overall, the contest will help fund the bike for Eliana and her family. So, it's simple: head over to Eliana's page and vote!

Getty Images/EyeEm
Getty Images/EyeEm
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Good luck, Eliana! We can't wait to see you back on those West Michigan bike trails once the weather is warmer.

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