Barrier Daily Truth

A special bike for a special girl

Wednesday, 15th February, 2012

‘WHEELS TO FREEDOM’: A bank account has been set up to help raise money for Lara Pascoe (6) to get a specially modified bike.

By Gayle Hogan 

Lara Pascoe’s beautiful smile and happy nature defy the struggles the six-year-old has faced every day of her life.

At just 10 months old she was diagnosed with Angelman’s Syndrome, a neuro-genetic disorder with no known cure or treatment.

It is characterised by severe intellectual and development delay, lack of/or diminished speech, unstable jerky gait, jerky movements (especially hand flapping), sleep disturbance, balance problems and epilepsy, resulting in life long seizures. 

Adding to Lara’s woes, she recently developed scoliosis and hip dysplasia as well. 

To bring some joy into Lara’s life, her parents Bianca and Steve have established a fundraising bid - Wheels to Freedom - to purchase a specially modified bicycle that will give her the freedom to ride like other children do, while strengthening her muscles.

“This bike will not only give Lara hours and years of fun, but will also keep her safe whilst she rides,” Bianca said on the Facebook fundraising page.

“It will also aid in developing not only her confidence and independence, but also her social and gross-motor skills.”

Body Cycles in Adelaide is building the bike with special attachments and it will cost more than $1,700. 

It is another expense her parents have encountered as they work to provide Lara with all the help and support possible.

When they reach their fundraising target for the bike, the couple will also be accepting donations to help ease the financial burden of travelling to medical appointments and for the purchase of other specialised equipment.

Last week, Lara - who turns seven in June - started year one at Burke Ward Public School.

Using a walker, she enjoys spending time in the playground and interacting with her friends.

During the day she uses a wheelchair to visit the library and also enjoys time on her iPad which she uses to develop fine motor and neurological skills.

Although she cannot talk, vocalising to her favourite songs and rhymes is another highlight of her school day which is spent with her aides Jayne and Lyndy.

A natural-born “revhead” with a keen interest in motorbikes, Lara would love the excitement that would come with riding a bike, Bianca said.

A special bank account has been set up at the Commonwealth Bank for Lara’s Wheels of Freedom Crusade. The account is in the name of Steve and Bianca Pascoe. BSB:062-692 Acc number: 1290 5049.

Since the account opened this month, donations have started rolling in and Bianca asked that people use their name as the description when depositing, so she could send out special “thank you” cards when Lara gets her new bike.

“If you wish to stay anonymous, we understand that too.

“All donations great or small are greatly appreciated. We cannot thank everyone enough for your support.”