…But you look sweet upon the street on a bicycle built for two 
Remember that iconic song? Have you started humming it in your head now? What a lovely image that brings to mind and that is especially true for one mom, Shelley, as she thinks of her son Shawn.  Shawn has been part of Sunbeam’s family for the past 9 ½ years.  Earlier this summer Shelley had the opportunity to take her son on his first bike ride ever.  It’s every parent’s wish and dream for their child to experience these firsts and to be able to witness them. 
Even though Shawn is non-verbal, his mom was certain of his joy as he experienced his first of many bike rides around Sunbeam Centre.  He was very quiet when they first started out, Shelley shared; “I believe he was just uncertain of what this new experience was.  As soon as we started to go faster and he could feel the wind in his face, he giggled and grinned from ear to ear.  I was filled with joy to have experienced this first bike ride with him. “
Sunbeam purchased two wheelchair tandem bicycles in early 2017. The bikes are currently at Day Program and are being enjoyed both inside and out.  One of the two bikes will be shared with one of Sunbeam’s community living homes. The bikes are manufactured by The Duet, and this design of bike has been around since 1991.  The Duet promotes that it will provide the freedom to enjoy the outdoors.  It is safe, with three braking systems to ensure complete control at all times and has a low centre of gravity providing superior weight distribution and overall stability. And, of course, it’s a lot of fun.
Keep an eye on our Facebook page for photos and/or videos of others enjoying Sunbeam’s bicycles built for two.