Ashanti is a child living with Rett syndrome. She faces daily challenges that most of us will never fully understand. Simple movements that other children take for granted—running, balancing, steering, even purposeful hand use—require extraordinary effort for Ashanti. Rett syndrome affects her motor coordination, muscle tone, communication, and endurance. Because of this, opportunities for her independent mobility and joyful physical activity are often limited.

A specially adapted bike would provide far more than recreation for Ashanti. It would offer her therapeutic benefits that directly support strength, balance, coordination, and cardiovascular health. Regular cycling can help her improve muscle tone, joint mobility, and circulation while reducing stiffness and promoting overall physical wellbeing. For children with Rett syndrome, movement is medicine.

Beyond the physical benefits, a bike creates something even more powerful: independence and inclusion. It allows Ashanti to move alongside peers, participate in family outings, and experience the simple joy of riding outdoors. It fosters confidence, social engagement, and emotional wellbeing. Ashanti who relies heavily on caregivers for mobility, the ability to propel herself—even with assistance—can be life-changing.

Funding this request is not simply supporting recreational equipment — it is freedom, inclusion, and joy. It is an opportunity for Ashanti to experience movement in a way that builds strength while nurturing dignity and happiness. Supporting access to an adapted bike is an investment in both physical health and quality of life for Ashanti.

We deeply appreciate your consideration and commitment to improving access to adaptive resources for children such as Ashanti with complex medical needs.

Sincerely,

Proud parents of Ashanti Simpkins

She loves being outside she out grew the refton bike she had. And I passed it down to another little girl with rett's she doesn't have any use of her hands and can't sit up straight on her own