UNION, Ky. — Like most 7-year-old boys, Keegan Knecht loves dogs.
And his mother, Jennifer, says that’s not all he’s passionate about. “He’s loving school, and has lots of friends at school,” she said.
Still sometimes it’s tough for him to fit in.
Keegan was born addicted to heroin. Knecht’s family adopted him in the hopes of providing him a second chance at a life better than what his birth mother felt was possible.
“He had a lot of struggles in life,” Jennifer said, “going through the withdrawals.”
The boy’s inborn addiction created a laundry list of problems, including cerebral palsy, which makes it difficult for him to control his movements and balance.
“He does have a wheelchair,” Jennifer said. “He’s starting to get old enough where he doesn’t want to be in a wheelchair and, you know, feel different than the other kids.”
So when Jennifer discovered the “Great Bike Giveaway,” orchestrated by the Michigan-based organization Friendship Circle, she thought she might have found a solution.
The group’s goal is to donate some 600 bicycles adapted for children with special needs.
“This is something he loves to do,” Jennifer said. “So I know he’ll be on a bike forever.”
Friendship Circle’s website draws awareness to hundreds of children living with special needs across the country, now including Keegan. Each child has a unique story about why they want a bike, along with their picture.
View Keegan's page, and read why he wants a bike, here.
