He is taking part in the Ready, Set, Move fundraiser to so another child living with a disability can have a custom bike just like his, through Freedom Wheels, who create custom bikes for people living with a disability.

Evan's own Freedom Wheels bike was arranged by his team of therapists and according to his mum, Emily Priestly, has greatly benefited his self esteem and physical development.

"As parents, we want him to be able to experience life as other kids his age do, and riding a bike is a rite of passage for a seven year old," Ms Priestly said.

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"Inclusion is so important for kids with disabilities."

Evan has hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, which causes pain and fatigue throughout his body, breathing issues, joint dislocations, hearing loss and digestive issues, as well as a host of other challenges.

Ms Priestly said he wears compression garments, knee and ankle braces, and uses a wheelchair to help combat some of the symptoms.

"EDS is not a well known condition, so it is sometimes hard for people to understand how he can walk, run and jump for short periods when not injured, but also needs a wheelchair to get from point A to point B," she said.

Freedom Wheels bikes are custom made to suit each child's physical and cognitive abilities, and gives them the confidence and freedom to ride a bike, and Evan wants to give another child the same opportunity.

"For Evan this means a handle on the back so we can push him when he gets tired, outriggers to keep him stable, postural support to enable him to sit on the bike for longer periods of time, special foot cups to keep his feet on the pedals, and adjusted handlebars and brakes to make it easier for him to hold on and to use a handbrake," Ms Priestly said.

"The bikes are very well engineered so they use less of the person's energy to propel themselves forward."

Evan is taking part in the fundraiser as part of the Action Occupational Therapy team, who are based in East Maitland and carry out monthly assessments for local kids and adults to access these custom bikes.

"Despite the huge challenges he faces daily, he continually amazes us with his perseverance and cheeky sense of humour," Ms Priestly said.

"His bike allows him to ride with his brothers and friends and go on family bike rides, the smile on his face when he is riding down a hill and feeling the wind on his face says it all!"

So far Evan has raised $2683 for Freedom Wheels, view his fundraising page here.

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