Nichole Hastings is riding to celebrate abilities this 4th of July
This 4th of July, self-advocate Nichole Hastings will celebrate America’s independence and her own! Nichole has Cerebral Palsy and leads a very independent life with her fiancé, Paul and this year she will be riding her adaptive bicycle in the Cazenovia and DeRuyter 4th of July parades.
Nichole has spent many years advocating for herself and others.
“Nichole is one of the most dedicated people I have ever met, and when she puts her mind to something there isn’t anything she can’t accomplish,” said Shannon Richard Enders, director of development andcCommunications at The Arc of Madison Cortland.
Last year, Nichole propelled her adaptive bike with her hands and arms as she rode the 2017 Marine Corps Historic Half in Fredrick Springs, Va., finishing the 13.1-mile race in 4 hours and 11 minutes.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today and the adaptive bike rider I am without the therapy team,” said Hastings. “I can tell you from experience the people at The Arc of Madison Cortland believe in ability and not disability.”
Nichole hopes to join John Robinson and Doug Hamlin from Our Ability during their Journey Along the Erie Canal Bike Ride this fall. The ride is a two-week journey that brings awareness to the abilities of all people.
The bike ride runs from Buffalo to Albany each year.
“I hope to raise awareness about adapted sports for people with disabilities,” said Hastings.
For more information about Hastings or The Arc of Madison Cortland, call Enders at 315.363.3389 ext. 1600 or email Shannon.Richard@arcofmc.org.