A Trike, CIDP, and a Dream Hello, dear friends and supporters! My name is Deb Knisley, and I am a lifelong cyclist with an adapted recumbent tricycle, a chronic neurological disease (CIDP ), and an incredible dream - to cycle on the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP). This journey will have many unique challenges because of my rare disease, but I am determined to live life to the fullest and eager to pursue this dream as part of my "adventure list" (my alternative to a "bucket list"). Some Logistics The GAP is a rail trail located mostly in Pennsylvania and used primarily for cyclists and hikers. In September 2024, I hope to cycle 115 miles of it in a week. Unfortunately, my limited personal funds, mainly relying on a modest Social Security benefit, hinder me from making this dream a reality. My disease constraints further limit my income potential. So, I am reaching out to you, the wonderful LFEBridge community, for assistance. Your generous support will help cover essential expenses such as food, lodging, and trail support, empowering me to embark on this transformative journey. CIDP and Me CIDP is a rare neurological disease that I was diagnosed with in 2006. It is an acronym for Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy. Basically, I short-circuited as my own body attacked my peripheral nervous system. Check out this Columbus Dispatch article with some more info on my backstory. I am grateful to be in remission now, however, my CIDP has left me with permanent disabilities including pain without ceasing. Do you know the pins and needles feeling when your feet fall asleep? Well, that is just how it started but it became more like a blanket of staples fresh out of a fire with very little relief. I will forever have neuromuscular and other impairments that contribute to functional limits. Despite these challenges, I refuse to let my condition get me down. With the help of a dedicated physical therapist, I continuously work on muscle activation, strength, stability, mobility, balance, and stamina. The challenges may be relentless, but they won't deter me from pushing forward with a motivated, joyful, loving spirit. Empowerment through Cycling I have personally experienced the transformative power of adaptive recumbent cycling. Beginning with my introduction to this sport in 2024 on a borrowed trike, it was an empowering and exhilarating experience, truly a game-changer in my life. In 2024 I was fortunate to receive an equipment grant from the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF), which allowed me to acquire my own adaptive recumbent trike. Now, with a few years of acclimation, I am eager to expand my cycling horizons further. Cycling on the GAP will undoubtedly be a challenging endeavor, but it is an adventure worth undertaking. Adapting to my differently-abled body and enduring symptoms will constantly challenge me. Is it painful? Yes. Is it worth it? Absolutely. I am tapping this courage as I have meticulously planned my itinerary in collaboration with my neurologist, taking into account the specific needs of my body and my disability challenges. To ensure safety, a fellow recumbent cycling friend will accompany me, and we will have access to an outfitter for any emergencies along the trail. THANK YOU! Your support will empower me to overcome my limitations and make this cycling tour a reality. In addition to financial support, sharing this campaign on social media or directly with friends and family will be immensely valuable in spreading the word and raising awareness. As my younger family says, “Please share this on your IG story!” To my community, thank you DEARLY for the support. I will see you on the trail! P.S. Please know that LFEBridge charges a transaction fee of 2.9% + $0.30 per donation to enable this fundraising platform. While they may prompt you to tip, you are not obligated to do so. Rest assured, your donations are protected through the Donor LFEBridge Giving Guarantee.
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