Freedom Concepts is grateful for the support of non-profit funders, all across North America, who help to get bikes to children who need them. From time to time though, we come across a true grassroots effort that is as inspiring as it is generous. This is a wonderful story that illustrates how one group of colleagues, all on their own, came together to change the world for one little boy and his dad!
A few months prior to getting into contact with you, Clayton had sent an email to our department requesting us to vote for Hunter on a website to “Win” a Freedom Concepts Bike. I believe it was based on total votes received by a certain timeline. Of course Hunter did not win which created the instant response by my fellow colleagues, “He’s getting a bike”. I can’t say enough about the hearts of the people I work with. It is without a doubt the most positive aspect of my position. The group is a strong collection of mostly Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)s, Anesthesiologists, and supportive staff. We quickly organized to collect money and ensured that Clayton remained unaware of our intentions. Everyone did a great job of keeping the secret, and communicating through email void of his reception was a beneficial tool to use. We were able to keep communications of monies raised, monies still needed, and correspondence with your office. The interesting thing was, we initially thought the bike cost in the ball park of $2,000.00. As I contacted you and realized the cost was larger, I informed my department of the extra challenge. The response was immediate, “Let’s do another round of collection”. People just kept giving as we set our goal to the amount of $4,000.00. It is no surprise to me of the generosity of the people I work with. It was something everyone felt joy in doing.
Clayton discovers that his company helped Hunter purchase an adaptive bike
As for the “why” of Clayton. The truth is, very few of us have ever met Hunter. Spending so much time at work in such a unique institution (Level 1 Trauma and Transplant Center), the opportunities for interacting with your colleague’s family is very limited. That being said, your colleagues themselves are treated as your second family, and we have always kept that part of our culture here. Clayton has the highest adoration and respect of many in our department. He brings to his patients a true sense of selflessness and empathy. He is a Father of a special needs child, and expresses joy, love, and respect for his Son Hunter.
Hunter sees his new bike for the first time
We know it must not be easy. We as Parents understand the challenges of everyday life in Parenting on the most basic level. To see Clayton walk strong as a Man in Faith, and Fatherhood is a true blessing of inspiration to us all. He deserved our respect and the response to filling the need of something so basic for his Son was testimony to him.
As for the “why” of Hunter. Purely simple, a boy needs a bike. Every person remembers their childhood bike. The freedom, adventure, and joy of feeling alive follows the pursuit of something within us. It is a desire innate to all persons, and Hunter is a boy who deserves that experience.
I wanted to thank you for the support and role you played in our mission. It has brought a lot of people together for something wonderful. It has also brought to our attention, the “need’ and “expense” of certain equipments regarding special needs. Although many of the equipments are taken for granted when one sees for example, a wheelchair, Scooter, bike, etc, many do not appreciate the significant cost this creates for a Family. It was a blessing to be a part of supporting this effort, and your office has our utmost respect and thanks.
Sincerely,
Shawn
Hunter has been on his bike every day I’ve had it As you know, hunter doesn’t talk. When I take him outside, he goes straight to the garage door and waits for me to open it so I can get it out for him. He truly does enjoy his bike and if it wasn’t for the bikes you make, Hunter may not have gotten to experience that joy.