Big smiles, new wheels

PERKINS TWP. — A little girl's new adaptive bike has arrived and is set to bring joy, movement and present a milestone moment for her. A very special delivery has arrived at Federation Headquarters: an adaptive bike for 10-year-old Amelia of Aurora. The bike will be on display at Federation Headquarters, inside the Sandusky Mall, 4314 Milan Road (U.S. 250), until Wednesday when it will be transported to Amelia's home. People can view Amelia's bike through Wednesday, celebrating a milestone that reflects the power of perseverance, love and collective generosity. The Federation is a local "Star Trek"-themed charitable organization. Amelia's journey Born at just 23 weeks and weighing only one pound, Amelia spent the first six months of her life in the neonatal intensive care unit, according to a release from The Federation. Her twin sister, Gracie, weighed just 7 ounces and tragically passed away shortly after birth, the release states. Since then, Amelia has undergone six surgeries, battled numerous infections and faced a host of complex medical diagnoses, including hydrocephalus, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, adrenal insufficiency, chronic lung disease and gastroparesis. Despite being non-ambulatory and non-verbal, Amelia communicates using a device and expresses joy with her contagious laugh and bright smile. She enjoys swimming, bowling, adapted baseball and spending time with her friends. One of her greatest joys discovered during therapy has been riding an adaptive bike — a moment that brings movement, independence and happiness. Acquiring the bike was not an easy task. Financial constraints due to necessary home adaptations and the recent purchase of a new mobility van made the dream seem out of reach. But thanks to generous support and advocacy, Amelia's bike is now a reality, the release states.