CRANSTON YMCA FIRST IN STATE TO OFFER USE OF FUNCTIONAL ELECTRICAL STIMULATION BIKE

The Cranston YMCA, a branch of the YMCA of Greater Providence, will honor those who have made it possible to offer the only Functional Electrical Stimulation bike (FES) in the state of Rhode Island on Tuesday, June 9 from 6:30 – 8:00 pm (program at 6:45 pm). The FES bike is designed to help those who are dealing with paralysis and other Neuro-Muscular issues to regain strength in muscles that may no longer be able to function.

“I am proud that the City of Cranston contributed $5,000 in CDBG funds towards having a certified physical trainer available to assist members with the utilization of this new Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) bike. Cranston and the YMCA have a long standing relationship that benefits all Rhode Islanders and in this case we are helping a local legend, Gary “Tiger” Balleto as he battles his way to a full recovery. He is a boxing legend and a Cranston resident who will benefit from the only FES bike in Rhode Island. Aside from “Tiger” many other individuals who are facing similar challenges will be able to use this bike to further their own rehabilitation” said Cranston Mayor Allan Fung

Guests will have the opportunity to chat with Cranston YMCA executive director Cory Guglietti who led the effort to get a FES bike for the Cranston YMCA, and boxer Gary Balleto who is a user and great proponent of the FES bike.

FES is a well-established rehabilitation technique that uses pulses of electrical current to stimulate peripheral nerves evoking muscle contractions and patterned muscle activity. With Restorative Therapies systems, FES creates patterned movement in arms, legs and trunk. FES enables muscles to work and perform activities even though the muscles may be weak or paralyzed through neurological disease or injury.

For more information on the FES bike at the Cranston YMCA, please call 401-943-0444; or please visit gpymca.org.

About the YMCA of Greater Providence

The YMCA of Greater Providence is a 501c3 serving communities in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts. The Y is a charitable organization made up of men, women and children joined together by a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility. For more information, please visit our website at gpymca.org; or call us at 401-521-9622.