by Roger Normand

At first glance, he looked as though he was wearing a tall walking boot perched on the end of one foot.  Perhaps a broken foot, atop a mass of duct tape.  Yet here he was riding confidently on his e-trike on a sunny but cool February day along the Legacy Trail.  

We chatted.  Richard explained he configured his e-trike to mitigate chronic Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, an extremely painful condition caused by misfiring nerve endings.  He pointed to his left foot in the boot.  “Vibrations trigger intense pain.  It’s worse on my left foot, so I wear a boot propped up on additional padding.  I’ve also got padding under my right foot.  I love riding on the trail in part because it has a very smooth surface.”  

He then proceeded to show me some wildlife pictures he’s taken along the trail.  “I’m a nature photographer.  I have an instagram account – backyard_birder_indiana – with my pics to showcase the beauty of birds and help raise money and awareness for CRPS research.”  He said he’s been riding the trail from Venice for many years.  “I used to be a multi sport athlete.  Not anymore,” he said with just a tinge of regret.  “This really helps me keep a positive attitude about life.  I LOVE riding on the trail with the sun and wind on your face.  ”  

Best wishes, Richard, and thanks for sharing your journey and inspiring others.