Teams of cyclists were seen riding stationary bikes to raise money for cerebral palsy at an event organized at the Keystone Centre’s UCT Pavilion in Brandon, Manitoba. The Brandon event is conducted yearly to raise funds for people with cerebral palsy and their families in the Westman Region. This year, the event collected over $46,000 for cerebral palsy. All funds raised in the area through the event will stay local, and the money will go towards equipment and additions needed for home care and mobility, such as wheelchairs and bicycles.

Around fifteen teams took 25-minute turns riding stationary bikes after spending the lead-up to the event raising funds for those suffering with cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy refers to a wide variety of disorders caused by damage or abnormal development in the parts of the brain that control movement. It is neither hereditary nor contagious.

Tom Czerkawski, chair of the Cerebral Palsy Association of Manitoba’s Westman Chapter said that people with cerebral palsy receive wheelchairs from the provincial government, but they do not receive the necessary accessories for their wheelchairs. The government funds only the basic needs, which does not work for anyone with special needs. Special seats, chest straps, head bolsters, and other arrangements are required for floor-sitters, bicycles, and more. Outfitting and fitting chairs take up about 50% of the expenses.

The event was organized by the Cerebral Palsy Association of Manitoba which is turning 50 years old this year while the Winnipeg edition of the bike ride is hitting its 35th anniversary. Organizers said the event typically raises more than $40,000 each year, even during COVID-19 when no formal gathering could be held due to restrictions. If you wish to donate, you can do so online here. You can also learn more about the association’s services for individuals with cerebral palsy on the same website.