Community sets to dash for disability

The Angelo State Physical Therapy Association will host the Superhero Dash on Saturday, March 2, to benefit children and adults with physical and cognitive disabilities through the AMBUCS foundation.


“San Angelo recently started a chapter of the AMBUCS organization named the Concho Valley AMBUCS,” President of the ASPTA Courtney Snow said. “Currently the chapter consists of 15 members, including local physical therapists, student physical therapists, and community members.”


The races will include a fun run, a single lap of approximately 1.5 miles, and, for those racers searching for a challenge, a 5K.


“Having the two distances is a great way to get children involved and anyone who might feel like the 5K is too far for them,” Snow said. “The CVA is also planning to have an obstacle course at the race for AmTryke riders and other able-bodied children.”


The ASPTA came up with the idea of asking participants to dress up like superheroes for the race.


“The patients themselves are superheroes to us by enduring so much and still striving to be more independent despite their disabilities,” Snow said. “There will be awards for race times and best costume in the form of a superhero gift basket.


AMBUCS makes specialty tricycles called an AmTrykes that are specifically made for disabled people.


“A few other students and myself became involved with the AMBUCS organization in May of 2012 after attending a seminar on fitting patients for therapeutic tricycles,” board and charter member of the Concho Valley AMBUCS Megan Hadley said. “We were very moved by the AMBUCS organization and philosophy of empowering those with mobility impairments, and thus decided to join with several physical therapists and other community members in the Concho Valley area and begin our very own chapter here in San Angelo.”


Five children from the Concho Valley area are currently on the waiting list for an AmTryke with many more individuals waiting. Therapists and community members have purchased tricycles for local patients on the wish list and are currently seeking funding through community events to purchase more tricycles.


“Physical therapists may recommend and fit a patient for an AmTryke,” Snow said. “If they cannot afford to purchase one on their own, they may be added to a wish list. They are designed to improve strength and motor skills for the rider. They also help to improve the patient’s self-esteem.”


“The race will start near the eagle statue by the Jefferson crosswalk and will finish in front of the UC. At least 75 people have already signed up for the race,” Snow said.


If you would like to be in the race you can sign up on the day of the race with a donation of $15. All proceeds from the event will go to the Concho Valley chapter of AMBUCS to help put more AmTryke tricycles in the hands of those with disabilities.