Jimmy was blindsided, while riding his bicycle on a one-way street in downtown Louisville, by a vehicle traveling the wrong way. Most of his bike was crushed that day, as were many parts of his body. The accident changed his life forever. After five years of physical pain, therapy, confusion, disappointment and medical complications, the accident still limits his daily activities.
Medical details are extensive. Jimmy’s shoulders were torn requiring surgery on both rotator cuffs followed by months of rehab. Doctors used a metal plate with screws on the ACL, MCL and meniscus of his right knee. They also replaced one hip, hoping to make it easier for him to walk, and fused several vertebrae in his back. The spinal fusion still restricts his movements and causes ongoing limitations to his mobility. At the same time, Jimmy was diagnosed with an auto immune disease known as sarcoidosis. After years of failed rehab, his doctors finally recommended permanent disability, limiting his work to just a few hours each day and leaving him feeling lost, lonely, forgotten and without purpose.
Jimmy discovered Pedal Power when his mother donated her sixty-year-old and no-longer ridden 1954 Schwinn. Shortly after, he showed up at the Beargrass garage where he asked to join the team. With so many physical limitations, his volunteer time was limited, but he has remained positive and thankful for the opportunity to serve.
Jimmy knew that Pedal Power made a difference in the lives of others, and he wanted to be part of that difference. Serving has given him meaning, purpose and many lasting friendships. In Jimmy’s words, “I like helping people in the community while at the same time they are helping me. Thanks for including me in your bicycle ministry.”
About Pedal Power Ministry:
This Ministry Team empowers folks in Louisville by providing refurbished/rebuilt bikes. Our volunteer team delivers on average 850 bikes a year to those in need in our community. Since its beginning in 2013, Pedal Power has delivered close to 8,500 bikes to individuals in need of reliable transportation. We have several strong partnerships with nonprofits and for-profit companies in Louisville such as Community Ministries, Homeless Ministries, Prison Resettlement Services, Kentucky Refugee Ministries, and Greater Louisville YMCA. We have a repair team that requires an understanding of bicycle components along with most repair skills and an interest to learn more about bicycle maintenance and a willingness to serve. We also have a social media team that spreads the Pedal Power message in our community with an understanding of social media sources and the ability to communicate and navigate within and through these sources. Please contact Pedal Power to get involved by serving or donating.