A Gift from Tristan
August 13, 2008,
Today was a breakthrough day for my son. He rode his bicycle without training wheels for the first time. I was so proud I cried. Three years ago we were told that we could never expect him to ride a bicycle ‘normally’, we were also told that he would never learn toileting skills or be able to have a normal childhood. We were devastated. Today he once again proved everyone wrong and showed me what determination really is. He is legally blind, has light sensory difficulty, his sense of touch is over developed, he has no depth perception and is the most amazing sweet boy I have ever had the privilege to know. He decided that he wanted to ride his bike like the big boys and told us that he was six and a big boy. He said we needed to take the training wheels off. We did and took him to the local park. My husband found a small grassy hill for him to start on. Tristan was scared, nervous, excited and told us so. He took a deep breath and said ‘Mommy don’t let go’. I promised and I ran down the hill holding on to the bike seat. He was thrilled and squealed with joy. He wanted to go again. After three more times he said he was ready. He looked at us and said ‘Don’t hold on’. Away he went! Down the hill and another fifty feet of him pedalling for dear life and he came to a safe stop. He left his bike and came running back to us...I did it! I did it! I will never forget those words or the look of pride and joy on his face. It was one of those moments that will live with us forever. He makes me believe that he can do anything.