For most, turning 21 is a milestone defined by newfound independence. For Chase, who lives with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1, it was the moment his lifelong dream finally met the open road. Chase has lived for the rumble of engines, dreaming of the day he could move beyond being a spectator and become a rider.

The Challenge of the Impossible

While the spirit was willing, the logistics were daunting. Standard motorcycle sidecars are built for passengers with full trunk control, but Chase’s SMA Type 1 presents significant physical challenges. He cannot sit fully upright and requires a precise 40–45° recline to remain comfortable and safe. Beyond the recline, he needed specialized lateral trunk support and stable head and neck positioning to handle the vibrations and movement of the road. To make his 21st birthday wish a reality, a standard seat wouldn’t suffice—it would require a bespoke engineering solution that didn’t yet exist.

A Masterpiece of Collaborative Engineering

The mission came alive through a powerful collaboration between Chase’s mother, Sherry, the May We Help team, and volunteer engineers Chris and Janet Garner. Sherry provided the vision and detailed requirements, while Chris and Janet poured their technical talent and immense kindness into the design. They constructed a completely custom, removable seat insert tailored precisely to Chase’s dimensions. This masterpiece of specialized engineering provided the exact postural support Chase needed, ensuring he was secure enough to experience the thrill of the ride without compromise.

“Chris and Janet, thank you for the incredible job you did creating Chase’s sidecar seat. It worked beautifully and allowed him to safely enjoy an experience we never could have imagined for him. Chase truly had the experience of a lifetime.”

— The Langland Family

The Ride of a Lifetime

On the day of the celebration, the dream took off in spectacular fashion. It wasn’t just a short trip down a quiet street; it was a community-wide event. Chase led a roaring convoy of love and support, flanked by his brothers from the Southern Ohio Bikers. Most importantly, the custom design allowed Chase to share this high-octane milestone alongside his closest friends. The air was filled with the unmistakable rumble of motorcycle engines, echoed by the sound of cheering as Chase flew down the road, safe, secure, and completely free.

Chase’s 21st birthday is a shining testament to the power of community. When creativity meets compassion, the “impossible” becomes a reality. May We Help is thrilled to provide this remarkable young man the gift of the open road and a memory that will last a lifetime.