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Jed Boal ReportingTechnology plays a critical role in the quality of our lives each day. Today, technology pioneers at Utah State University gave two boys a new sense of freedom that they otherwise might have missed.
When you're 13-years-old, riding a bike isn't just something, it's everything.
Kathy Elliott, Mother: "We had foot surgery done a year ago so he wouldn't lose his ability to walk. And this is just a very happy moment."
It's a huge day for Ryon Elliott of Cache County. Ryon is epileptic and the Utah State University Assistive Technology Lab gave Ryan a modified tricycle. It's rewarding for everyone involved.
Stan Clelland, Lab Coordinator: "I've been blessed with those abilities and talents. This is where I'm supposed to be."
Freedom to glide, to venture through the neighborhood, to play with other kids. The trike has wide pedals with velcro straps, a large seat and backrest and handles on the backrest so another person can help out.
Kathy Elliott, Mother: "He's been wanting to ride a bicycle or tricycle. He has brothers and sisters that ride. It's been hard for him to watch and not participate. So this is a great step for us."
Students from different departments work on projects that come from the community. Lauren Emery designed the pedals.
Lauren Emery, USU Student: "It's rewarding, and I think it's good to learn about more disabilities."
Brandon Foster was also fitted for a tricycle today. He's Autistic and needs a it for exercise to combat the effects of his medication.
Jerry Foster, Brandon's Father: "We told him, ‘Here's you bike.' He went running right to it. He's pretty excited about it."
He's waited three years and will take this new wheels home in a few weeks.
They'd be expensive machines out of a catalog, but with the students' help, they're priceless to the young riders.
