Author of the article: Julie Kotsis
Publishing date: May 06, 2021 • 8 hours ago • 2 minute read • The Paquette family, from left, Brad, Tammi, Linny, Trent and Brinley are shown at their Amherstburg home on Thursday, May 6, 2021. Thanks to special bike carriers, Brinley and Tammi, who are disabled are able to enjoy the family bike rides. Photo by Dan Janisse /Windsor Star
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Amherstburg sisters Tammi and Brinley Paquette love to go on family bike rides as often as possible but especially when brother Trent does the driving.
The Paquette sisters were born with an extremely rare genetic metabolic disorder called fumarase deficiency. They are non-verbal but able to walk.
A LITTLE girl from Chester has been out on family bike rides every weekend since receiving a charity grant for an adapted trike. Isla Francis’ parents say their daughter, 10, has been riding around Hoole spreading much-needed joy; waving and speaking to everyone she passes. The Chester family has been able to go on bike rides together for the first time with Isla’s trike, which can attach onto the back of another bike. Sociable Isla, who mum says has a great smile, has ADHD, autism, complex learning difficulties and a rare genetic condition called IQSEC2. Isla’s condition affects her balance and her cognitive learning skills and she is not able to ride a bike independently.