Pediatric patients run their own Arconic Jr. Bix

BETTENDORF, Iowa (KWQC) - It was an afternoon filled with huge smiles, proud parents and siblings and racers thrilled to cross the finish line.

Patients at MercyOne Genesis Bettendorf Pediatric Therapy ran their version of the Arconic Jr. Bix on Wednesday.

The race, which held in the clinic’s parking lot, was for children with special needs who are clients of Genesis GOPEDS.

The racers have mobility challenges due to injury, autism, cerebral palsy or other conditions, according to a media release.

“We started off being told he was nonverbal and he would never speak,” one family said. “And now, here he was announcing all four races, yes, and he did excellent. It was a proud, proud moment for us.”

A total of 115 kids registered for the event.

“Seven years ago, we weren’t sure if that would ever happen, so to have him and see him do it and cheer on his friends for doing it is just really amazing,” another family said.

Staff also handed out medals and T-shirts to all the participants, along with a popsicle to cool off after the race.