OT: Son's Autism

My 13 year old son has Aspergers Syndrome, a form of Autism. He cannot ride a bike. He hasn't had a bike since he was about 6 or 7. He has deficits in fine & gross motor skills. It is virtually impossible for him to hold his balance on a bike and learn to pedal at the same time. He cannot cross the street alone and he just learned to tie his shoes less than a year ago. We are trying to get a bike for him that has 3 wheels like an adult tricycle. I am on the hunt! I have searched online for new or used trikes and gone to numerous stores & bike shops looking. His birthday is Sept 15 and we had planned on getting him a bike. Or at least tell him that he is getting on in case we have to order it. I am looking into resources that might be available to fund the bike. I have calls in to the therapist. Any ideas? Keep us in your prayers. We are re-writing his IEP at school and also have many doctors appts and new therapy coming up. He is scheduled for Genetic testing on Sept 21. Love, Lindy

I don't have any ideas but you are all in my prayers.

My prayers are with you, Lindy. Good luck with all the tests and the IEP-writing. As for the bike, for what it's worth, I searched Froogle and found an adult tricycle on eBay for $200 and one at Wal-Mart for $270. There's one at AdaptiveMall.com for $3000, but it seems to be more appropriate for individuals with more severe motor deficits. Happy birthday to your son!

Wishing you much love and luck. I love you girl and that sweet young man of yours. Love, Aunt Elle

Lindy, I also have a son with Asperger's. I don't know what part of the state you're in but they should have a Families Helping Families covering your Parish. They have been a great resource for us as wells as Acadian Society for Autistic Citizens - you should be able to find a chapter at the ASA website -- http://www.autism-society.org I know someone at one of those 2 organizations should know where you can find what you're looking for and they are helpful at IEPs also. My 12 year old son has a dual exceptionality of SPED and Gifted/Talented, he's high functioning AS but does need some services. Families Helping Families has staff which have attended IEP meetings with us and were very helpful. Also, either FHF or ASAC should have money available from fundraisers to help you fund the bike or may know of someone who has one they no longer need. Feel free to email me with any questions and I'll see if I can find any info for y'all. I'll keep your family in my prayers. I know it can be overwhelming dealing with doctors, therapists, SPED, school, etc. If I can help, let me know. Aspie Mom, Anne

Have you tried Ebay? You can find must anything on there. Tina