Luisa rediscovers her mobility with the Huka Cortes
Since last July, Luisa (25) from Groningen has been making her daily rides on a Huka tricycle. ‘Due to my chronic illness, I had completely stopped cycling and become dependent on the bus,’ Luisa explains. ‘Now I can go out again independently and with ease.’
The search for a suitable bike
Luisa, originally from Ecuador, moved to the Netherlands eight years ago to study European Language and Culture. She was living in Groningen for six years when her chronic illness developed and cycling became increasingly difficult. ‘I noticed that, despite my symptoms, I missed a lot by not being able to cycle anymore,’ she explains. A friend with fibromyalgia, who had received a tricycle from the municipality, inspired her to also look for an alternative.
The discovery of the Huka tricycle
After some research, Luisa came across the Huka tricycle Cortes. ‘The modern design immediately appealed to me,’ she says. ‘I made an appointment at Fietsspecialist Meijer in Veendam and the service was great. They asked about my health and made adjustments where necessary. It felt right away.’ She ended up choosing a more luxurious seat because of her back problems and a parking brake for extra safety. ‘I also chose a bright shade of pink to match my style. Self-expression is very important to me, even when you are ill or have a disability.’
A new sense of freedom
With her new tricycle, Luisa has rediscovered her mobility and independence. ‘It took some getting used to at first,’ she admits. ‘I have some anxiety problems, so new things are always exciting. But after a few weeks, it felt like the bike was an extension of my body. I can now independently go shopping, visit friends and cycle to my medical appointments again.’
The importance of accessibility
In the city of Groningen, Luisa can park her bike anywhere thanks to a special sticker from the municipality for the chronically ill. ‘This exemption means I can park my bike close to my destination without it being taken away,’ she explains. ‘That gives a lot of peace of mind.’
An investment in herself
‘The money I spent on the tricycle is worth every penny,’ says Luisa. ‘I would recommend it to anyone struggling with mobility problems. It has really changed my life. I can now enjoy the wind on my face again and the freedom cycling offers. It feels like I have a piece of myself back.’
With her story, Luisa hopes to inspire others who might be hesitant about buying a tricycle. For her, it has been a life-changing decision that has greatly increased her mobility and independence.
Would you like to know more about the Huka tricycle or experience the Cortes by taking a free test ride? Contact us at +31 (0)541-572 472 or send an email to info@hukabikes.com.
