Physical therapy and occupational therapy programs join with Maine LEND to inspire mobility and independence

The Maine Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) program, along with representatives from the Departments of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy, have formed a Maine Chapter of AMBUCS.

AMBUCS, Inc. is a national nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to inspiring mobility and independence.

The newly formed chapter, called The Maine Trykers, pedaled into action with a Bike Day on May 11.

Members fitted and adapted tricycles for three children in the community. The tricycles were modified to make sure each child could independently use them.

The event was planned and implemented by Denise Tso (D.P.T., ’19) as her LEND Elective Project.

Maine AMBUCS chapter officers and leaders include Eileen Ricci, PT, D.P.T., M.S., PCS, associate clinical professor in the Physical Therapy program and Maine LEND program director; Valerie Jones, LMSW, Maine LEND FIT coordinator; Kathryn Loukas, OTD, M.S., OTR/L, FAOTA, Occupational Therapy clinical professor and LEND training director; Tara Paradie, PT, M.S., assistant clinical professor and Clinical Education assistant director; Elizabeth Crampsey, M.S., O.T.R./L., BCPR, assistant clinical professor and Community Therapy Center coordinator.

The new AMBUCS chapter group will begin raising money for three bicycles for the children. Members will be planning more bike days as part of this ambitious interprofessional program.