The news these days is often depressing at worst and frustrating at best. It’s easy to get caught up in the spin cycle and let it get us down. Never fear… The News Blender has you covered. Once a week we feature Something Good and, in return, all you have to do is tell us something good that has happened to you this week, something you are thankful for, a joke, a cute animal story, an inspiring tale of heroics, a Random Act of Kindness… SOMETHING good.
Today we have another example of teenagers helping someone in need.
Cillian Jackson is 2 years-old and was born with a genetic condition that limits his mobility. However, insurance would not cover an electric wheelchair at his young age and, with the cost upwards of $20,000, his family could not afford to cover one out of pocket.
So, Tyler, Cillian’s dad reached out to his old high school’s robotics team to see if they could help. The robotics team at Farmington High School in Minnesota enthusiastically took on the challenge, KARE11 reports.
Using a Power Wheels car as a base, the students used the skills learned in building competition robots and replaced the electronics, fabricated a custom-made joystick using a 3-D printer, installed a toddler bicycle seat and a five point harness, and finished off the custom-designed wheelchair with pool noodles as bumpers around the base.
Spencer Elvebak, the team’s coach, says of the team’s enthusiasm to use their unique skills to help Cillian, “That’s the great part of my job, to work with these kind of kids.”
The team members, who have many trophies from various competitions, were treated to a visit from Cillian and his parents four months after he received his new ride. The teenagers were able to see first hand how their project has helped Cillian. Nichole Cash, one of the members of the robotics team, told KARE11, “I think we won here more than we do in our competitions.”
Drew Eisenzimmer, another team member, said, “Instead of completing a task, we’re helping change someone’s life.” Cillian’s parent’s gratefully agree. Krissy Jackson, Cillian’s mom, says this customized wheelchair lets the toddler explore in ways that he hasn’t been able to do otherwise.
Teenagers using their special knowledge, a Power Wheels car, and a handful of components to help a little boy navigate the world with new-found independence is Something Good. Now it’s your turn… Tell me Something Good!
