Steinbach area teen with autism gets wheels, gains independence
A Mitchell, Man. teen is mobile thanks to the support of his community and his nifty new ELF bike.
Braiden Krahn, 19, has high functioning autism and can't ride a normal bike.
His mother, Annette, said he has been dependent on others for transportation in the rural community in southeastern Manitoba.
But now, people in the Steinbach area have given Braiden the independence he craved.
They raised $5,000 towards the $9,000 needed to buy the ELF bike, which is a cross between a bicycle and a car.
"If it wasn't for everybody he wouldn't have this bike," she said. "So we really appreciate it. It's very life-changing. It's made a big difference for his self-esteem."
The bike, which has a cab sitting on three wheels and can be peddled or uses solar/electric power, arrived on Friday.
Krahn said Braiden couldn't have been more excited.
"He needs this bike because he has high anxiety when he drives a car, he's just not able to drive a car. This is going to give him the freedom to come and go as he pleases."
There are a few glitches. Krahn said the battery keeps running out of power and Braiden had a bit of an accident when the ELF bike flipped on its side. But Krahn said she's not worried about Braiden's safety.
"He's a little nervous still on the highway and in town but he's come along really well."
Krahn goes along with her son, either on her own bike or in the car.
She said Braiden is also looking for a job, and the bike means he'll be able to get to and from work on his own.
The family plans to paint the bike blue, Braiden's favourite colour.
