Hand-cyclist makes 180 mile journey to Bossier City

A local man, left paralyzed from a horrific car accident, completed a cross state hand-cycle ride today. It's to raise money for Independence Regained, an organization bent on bringing more spinal cord and brain injury treatment to Shreveport-Bossier. Hand-cyclist Scott Wells rode 180 miles before returning from his second Cycling for Independence Ride.

His ride isn't just for his own independence but to raise money for others who've suffered brain and spinal cord injuries. After local treatment, several often travel to Huston, Tx. for rehabilitation. Wells' organization hopes to bring such therapies to Shreveport-Bossier.

"The biggest thing we see is having the family support systems to be to stay right their with their family member and be fully integrated into learning everything that's going on with their family member," Wells said. "So, they'll understand the whole process of this life changing event that's going on."

Wells says cycling requires endurance but also gives him a sense of freedom. Part of his plan is get more wheelchair bound individuals on a hand-cycle, as well.

"Especially people with spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries and neurological disorders," Wells said. "Getting into an exercise program because it's so crucial to helping them live a healthier, more active life." Wells serves as encouragement to those in his situation to keep living their lives as they choose and not let their injuries get in the way.

"I feel that everybody has limitations, but the only real limitations that we have are the ones that we set upon ourselves," Wells said. "People can do whatever they set their minds to do."

Wells journey took him from Delta, La. to Airline High School.

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Hand-cyclist makes 180 mile journey to Bossier City