Indie finds her own trail
For many families, outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and skiing are more than just a way to pass the time—they’re part of the fabric that keeps them connected. But for Sheri Jones and her daughter Indie, these family passions were once something they could only watch from the sidelines. Indie, a bright and energetic 10-year-old with Down Syndrome, had always been excluded from the active family outings her siblings enjoyed. But this summer, something changed.
Thanks to Teton Adaptive, Indie had the opportunity to try something new: biking! The Jones family had visited the WYDAHO Festival at Grand Targhee Resort before, but this year, they were excited to discover that there was an adaptive bike available for Indie to try. Sheri recalls, “For years, we’ve asked if there was a bike she could try, but they were always too big or not quite right. This time, Indie got on the trike, and it was a game changer. She absolutely loved it.”
Indie had always participated in the family’s biking adventures—though more as a passenger than a rider. Sheri had pulled Indie along in a trailer or on an e-bike, but the idea of Indie riding her own bike had always seemed out of reach. “Indie has always been a little bit hesitant with balance, and we didn’t want to push her too hard,” Sheri says. But with Teton Adaptive’s specially designed three-wheeled bike, Indie was able to experience the thrill of riding under her own power, feeling the wind in her hair just like her siblings.
Sheri can see the difference this experience has made for Indie. “She was so proud of herself, and I could see that she’s close to being able to do it on her own,” Sheri says. “It wasn’t just about the biking—it was about seeing her be part of the family experience. Our dream is for all of us to go on a ride together one day.”
The moment was emotional for Sheri as she realized how much Indie had to offer if only given the right opportunity. “Sometimes I catch myself thinking that Indie can’t do something because of her disability. But when I let her try, when we give her the chance, she surprises me every time. She’s capable of so much more than I give her credit for,” she reflects.
The day Indie tried the trike wasn’t just about a new biking experience—it was about breaking down barriers and showing Indie that she, too, belongs. For Sheri, this was a reminder that every child deserves the chance to explore, to try new things, and to feel like they are part of something bigger. “Indie doesn’t have to be left out just because it’s hard for her,” Sheri says. “With the support of organizations like Teton Adaptive, she can do the things she loves, just like anyone else. It’s worth every bit of extra effort to make that happen.”
“It may take time, but I know she’s getting closer to riding her own bike. And that dream of all of us riding together—it feels more possible now.”
For other families who might be hesitant to try adaptive sports, Sheri has a message: “It’s so easy to assume your child can’t do something, but you have to let them try. Sometimes they surprise you. And even if it’s hard, it’s worth it. Don’t decide for them—let them discover what they’re capable of. And with the support of organizations like Teton Adaptive, they’ll have the chance to try things they never thought possible.”
Sheri’s words are a powerful reminder that every child deserves the chance to be part of something bigger than themselves, to experience the joy of belonging, and to discover their own potential—just like Indie, riding her bike with a smile that says it all.
