Jetson Wood proudly shows off his new bike made by Giant in time for Christmas.
Andrew Ritchie        www.communitypix.com.au   d448364
Camera IconJetson Wood proudly shows off his new bike made by Giant in time for Christmas. Andrew Ritchie        www.communitypix.com.au d448364 Credit: Supplied/Andrew Ritchie        www.communitypix.com.au d448364

Wheels of fortune

Caitlin TillerEastern Reporter

Jetson (6) has arthrogryposis, a rare genetic condition that affects the strength of his leg and arm muscles and has previously hampered his ability to ride a bicycle.

Mrs Wood, of Mt Hawthorn, said she wanted to get her son cycling and her friend suggested she contact a representative for bike manufacturer Giant.

“It was awesome, within a day they had replied and pulled something together and they were really enthusiastic about it,” she said.

PerthNow Digital Edition.
Your local paper, whenever you want it.

Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE

Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.

READ NOW

“We had tried to customise a bike before but it was difficult so (Jetson) had never really ridden a bike.”

The bike dealer donated a bike (with some parts supplied by local businesses) and shortened the handlebars, adjusted the gearing, installed training wheels and added other changes to suit Jetson.

“Its so encouraging, people are so willing to help and they were bike enthusiasts so I think they want everyone to have the chance to ride a bike,” Mrs Wood said.

“Any exercise is good for development, so movement on the bike would loosen up his joints.

“But his little brother rides as well and we didn’t want him to miss out.”

Mrs Wood said the bike was finished and delivered just before Christmas.

“He (Jetson) was really rapt – he had an idea something was happening but he was still surprised,” she said. “Since he got the bike, we haven’t been able to wipe the smile off his face.”

Mrs Wood said her relatives were cycling enthusiasts and she was planning a ride together.

“Jetson is still practising up and down the street at the moment, but we might do a family ride at Lake Monger soon,” she said.

“For us it has been a journey, but things are getting better and better as he gets older and he is my ray of sunshine.”