HIGH POINT, N.C., April 29, 2019 – High Point University student volunteers presented Veyla O’Donnell with an Amtryke bike at a Miracle League of High Point’s baseball game.
In partnership with the High Point Civitan Club, HPU’s Civitan chapter and Circle K Club have worked to purchase the bike for O’Donnell, a Greensboro resident, who has a condition called hydrocephalus, in which fluid accumulates in the brain enlarging the head.
“We were thrilled to learn that our daughter, Veyla, would be receiving an Amtryke,” said Melissa O’Donnell, Veyla’s mother. “While she is unable to walk, Veyla is extremely determined to move herself around independently. This tryke will allow her to experience another form of mobility while providing the tools to strengthen muscles and increase coordination all in one.”
Melissa also said Veyla will now be able to ride alongside her younger sister and will embark on new adventures.
“My students and I are studying the role of service clubs in society, and the Miracle League Field was funded from donations from local Rotary, Kiwanis, and Lions clubs,” said Dr. Daniel Hall, chair of HPU’s economics department. “My students helped the High Point Civitan Club purchase the Amtryke to donate from National AMBUCS, which they also visited right here in High Point.”
National AMBUCS, headquartered in High Point, owns and operates Amtryke LLC, a therapeutic tricycle company dedicated to inspiring mobility and independence for people with disabilities.
HPU student volunteers joined the field with the O’Donnell family to take part in Veyla’s bike presentation.
“Being part of such an encouraging environment with incredibly strong families that love their children was so heartwarming,” said Izzy Lindblade, member of HPU’s Civitan and Circle K Clubs. “I was blown away by how many people volunteered to make these games special for the children, which is something that I am proud to be a part of.”