CYCLING WITH YOUR OWN MUSCLES, DESPITE A CONDITION

Monique van Gemerden

Cycling with a flaccid paralysis

“After the BerkelBike Pro got delivered, I really began to realise what an amazing bicycle it is. To start with, the service was incredibly fast and what’s even more important is the functional possibilities of the bicycle.

I have cauda equina syndrome, which results in very little sensation in my legs. I’ve found sitting on the BerkelBike extremely steady and it provides good back support. I really appreciate the arm propelling possibilities; if my legs are too tired to get up the hill my arms can give me that little extra support so I can still make it.

I prefer to have my legs move along so I can keep them in shape. I don’t want a propelling assist just yet and I want to keep cycling independently as long as possible, although it’s nice to have the option readily available. All-in-all, I can definitely recommend the BerkelBike.”

 
Monique’s favorite BerkelBike moment

“My favourite BerkelBike moment wasn’t too long ago when we cycled through the centre of Rotterdam. It’s soothing not having to be afraid to get off. Due to my Cauda equina syndrome (CES) I have limited feeling in my legs, which causes me to lose balance rather quickly.

Everything I can get from it, I am getting. What makes it even better is the ability to also use my arms. I had to get used to it at first, especially because we had to quit after 3 kilometers due to a factory defect.”

A ride as long as the marathon

“The second time we went out, the gears weren’t working the way they were supposed to. At that point, I didn’t have a great feeling about the BerkelBike, but when I called I got great help and now the bicycle works perfectly!

My longest ride was 42 kilometers, more than 26 miles, all the way from Hoek van Holland to Scheveningen. I hope BerkelBike continues to exist for a long time and keeps developing, just so I can continue having fun cycling! I was so happy with my BerkelBike but had to give it back to the WMO because my husband and I were moving to another city.”

Since then Monique has moved in the meantime and is cycling again on her brand new BerkelBike.

Monique van Gemerden
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