Callen

Callen was born prematurely at 27 1/2 weeks. His family consisted of two sisters, his mom, and his dad, who was on active duty in the Air Force. Shortly after being born, it was discovered that Callen had developed grade 3 and 4 brain bleeds. The medical prognosis at the time was bleak, and there was no way to predict life in the future, including all spectrums; mobility, brain development, speaking, eating, etc. After nearly 90 days in the NICU, requiring brain surgery, he was diagnosed with Hydrocephalus, Cerebral Palsy (CP), and Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI).

As Callen grew older, he was the center of attention of his family. He received multiple therapies throughout the day, including occupational, speech, and physical therapies performed at home, the gym, the pool, and on horseback. When not in therapy, Callen actively supported his older sisters in junior and high school with their extracurricular activities.

While living in New Mexico, Callen attended the New Mexico School for the Blind. During this time, he became the driver of his first powered wheelchair, affectionately referred to as "The Beast." Picking out this nickname by himself, the independence it brought him was inspirational and empowering, all while encouraging his curiosity about his surrounding environment. After military moves, first taking the family to Texas and then to Florida, Callen could experience for the first time the warm ocean waters and the beach nearby Hulburt Field. He became a pro in the water, where he experienced the joy of boogie boarding with his parents.

Callen has outgrown "The Beast," and his new power chair is called "The Rocket." He enjoys top speeds of up to 7.5 mph, all the while doing burnouts and making his wheels spin. Callen has also learned to love golf, and when not playing himself, he cheers on and coaches his dad.

Throughout life, adaptive equipment has safely permitted Callen to enjoy outdoor activities, exercise, and be independent. An adaptive cycle will allow him, with his entire family, to participate safely and independently in family rides. Callen, now eleven, looks forward to taking rides around the neighborhood and telling people about the wonders of adaptive equipment.