An autistic Ipswich teenager who had his treasured bicycle stolen by thugs in July was given a surprise presentation by friends on Saturday after the community rallied to raise money for a new bike.
Jordan Rednall of Woodbridge Road was set upon by a group of teenagers in Landseer Park at around 5.30pm on Sunday, July 30, who pushed him off his bike and rode off with it.
The 16-year-old’s dad John said Jordan, who has autism, ADHD and anxiety, was left “distraught” without it.
But thanks to the efforts of family, friends and the community, two online fundraising pages helped raise the cash for a brand new Mongoose Thunderball bike the same as his old one, and presented the stunned youngster with it at his Saturday Group in Stowmarket.
“It’s an overwhelming response,” said dad John, 47.
“It was a total surprise – they all gathered outside and he had no idea what was going on.
“When they opened up the shed I believe I saw a tear which is incredible for him – he was so overwhelmed he didn’t know what to say.”
Jordan’s family said his conditions meant Jordan was unable to understand why his bike had been stolen, and had been questioning every day whether his bike had been found.
A neighbour had given a bicycle to Jordan to borrow in the interim, as the youngster regularly spent hours at a time cycling – often between four and five hours a day on a weekend.
When Jordan’s Saturday Club found out about the bike theft, volunteers Jess and Fran began the online fundraising page, which coupled with one started by Clare Norton, meant they soon reached the total.
James Gooding, care worker at the club, said: “We were just super sad when we heard about it.
“He was so overwhelmed he didn’t say anything and just gave him a big hug – you could tell he wanted to get on and ride it straight away!”
Mr Rednell added: “He is a lot more positive from today, and has a lot less stress and anxiety.
“We have been totally taken aback by the generosity of friends and strangers.
“What they have done for him is change a young person’s life, and I hope when they read this they will feel good knowing what they have done for him.”
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