The Gift of Independence: Angels of Mobility
Tara A. Spears
There are many pluses to living in rural Mexico-except if you’re disabled. The charming lack of sidewalks can be an extreme barrier to getting out of the house to enjoy the lovely climate. Several local people that can’t walk on their own have never seen the town they live in or experienced the beach that people travel from all over the world to see. Call it karma or destiny but when international visitor, David Randell and a couple of his buddies were hanging out in downtown La Penita and stopped to talk to the man dragging himself along the sidewalk asking to shine your shoes, a wonderful grassroots group was formed. The group was named Mobility Angels and established the goal to gift local handicapped individuals with mobility devices that would give them access to the larger world. Their mission was quickly adopted by another informal group of visitor, the Old Bastards.
The local guy that inspired the visitors is Filipe who in 2018 received his first hand-operated set of wheels. Also in 2018 David and his buddies provided a young boy with mobility. It might seem ordinary to those that come from more affluent areas that provide medical supplies such as walkers or wheelchairs to the handicapped. As anyone who has twisted an ankle or injured a knee on vacation can tell you, there are not even canes or crutches available in Jaltemba Bay unless you borrow from someone! Bless the RV crowd for ferrying down used medical equipment to donate.
David shared that he had experienced severe injuries in a motorcycle accident “so I know first-hand what the frustration of being confined because I couldn’t walk is like.” In addition, he is a mechanic who knows how to build vehicles. David said that because he can still be independent, he wanted to give back something to the universe. I think he’s just that kind of altruistic person that likes to lend a hand to those that need it.
Dave likes to say “Give them wheels! It will help them go to school or work or just to simply get out of their solitude.” Disabled individuals that can achieve a modified bike will improve their health and fitness and overcome their physical restrictions- such a win/win situation.
Of course these special sets of wheels are not cheap. Do a quick google and you’ll see that the average price is $5- 8 thousand dollars US. David used his own knowledge and resources besides inviting financial help from others. Over the years the La Penita Mobility Angels group has increased to 60 members that meet once a month January-March in various locations. “Thank you all for your generous support!” said Rod Jenkins at the February meeting that presented Felipe with an upgraded new set of wheels-with off road tires to enable him to go in sand.
According to physical therapist, Huelet Smith, a handcycle is a three-wheeled, self-propelled vehicle that is powered with the user’s arms rather than their legs, and is used by both able and disabled people for recreation and fitness. The front wheel is driven by derailleur gearing powered by specially designed hand cranks and is very appropriate for people with limited use of their legs from spinal cord injuries, amputations, multiple sclerosis, CP.
Because bike riding is such a pleasant and healthy experience, every person certainly deserves the opportunity to take part in this activity. Thankfully, caring people such as Dave and the entire Mobility Angels group are providing a service for special needs individuals in our puebla. Having the freedom to move by themselves improves their quality of life besides elevating mental and physical health.
It’s obvious that special needs tricycles, handcycles and recumbent bikes are a medical necessity for those of any age who are unable to walk, or who have to sit for long periods of time in a wheelchair. If you know of any local person who could benefit from a custom mobility set of wheels, contact Rod- rodinmexico@gmail.com or message Robert Germain (trilingual) on messenger.
Many, many thanks go to David Randall for leading the way to reach out to the community and to all 60 of the members that have contributed to the success of Mobility Angels. It is an honor to know such a kind hearted man as David that has overcome personal challenges with perseverance. Mobility Angels is proof that the little guy CAN make the world better.
For more information, to donate, or recommend someone who needs assistance, contact David Randall, Rod Jenkins, or Robert Germain.