Disabled boy 'runs' marathons with a big assist from his brother
Lucas Aldrich, a young boy with a disability, joined a triathlon with his older brother, Noah. The siblings trained and together, they conquered the race.
The brothers from Idaho inspired many people with their determination to finish the mini-triathlon for kids held on July 12, 2014, in Boise, Idaho.
At the time, Lucas was only six years old, and Noah was eight.
Noah was the one who found out about the competition and told his mother that he wanted to join the race with his little brother.
Here's a heartwarming story of a brotherly bond. ❤️ 10-year-old Lucas Aldrich can't walk or talk, but is a triathlete through and through. That's because his older brother, Noah, won't stop pulling for him. Read their full story here: https://t.co/8OiKLmC2rd pic.twitter.com/0nKduJ5yGj
— USA Triathlon (@usatriathlon) May 9, 2018
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Lucas was born with a rare type of brain malformation called lissencephaly.
As a result of his condition, Lucas can’t talk and walk. He also can’t do daily routines like eating or taking a bath on his own.
@soledadobrien @RealSportsHBO I don't know whether to cry or celebrate the Aldrich Family! Noah & Lucas are simply AMAZING! Excellent story! pic.twitter.com/87Zs6tj6dV
— nicksmithnews™ (@nicksmithnews) April 21, 2017
Despite being unable to do the most basic things, Lucas took pride in being able to say that he had surpassed a triathlon with the help of his brother.
The boys’ mother, Alissa Aldrich, shared that her sons spent three whole months to train.
At the time of the race, Lucas and Noah were called Team Lucas House, which was named after the non-profit organization Alissa put up in tribute to her son.
Disabled Boy Completes Marathons With A Big Assist From His Big Bro.: Lucas Aldrich has completed more than a dozen triathlons over the years, and that’s no small feat for a young […] The post Disabled Boy Completes Marathons With A Big Assist From His… https://t.co/JihjrxCdYo pic.twitter.com/dEbBTz3cjx
— Jesus Christ (@Loving0Jesus) September 9, 2018
They began with a 200-meter swim, where Noah was swimming and pulling Lucas along in a raft.
Afterward, the biking leg of the race had Noah pedaling while Lucas was riding along in a bike trailer.
Lastly, the one-mile run was a bit of a challenge since Noah was very tired at that point. Although, he showed his determination as he pushed his brother over the finish line in his chair.
Inspired by Noah & Lucas Aldrich - the triathlon conquering brothers. This hammer is for you! https://t.co/3oZGbqusbD#BleedBlue #Courage pic.twitter.com/1MxCwaAOSw
— Bryan Harsin (@CoachHarsin) May 12, 2017
Speaking with the Daily News, Alissa said, "It was a little nerve-wracking but exciting and exhilarating at the same time. And we're definitely proud. As a parent, it was a pretty incredible thing to watch."
As for Lucas, Alissa said he was very happy after the race. She shared that somehow, Lucas knew he was part of a special and big accomplishment.
Since they were younger, Lucas and Noah always had a special bond. They loved spending time together, watching cartoons and riding bikes.
Eagle's amazing Triathlon Brothers Noah & Lucas Aldrich were honored at the #CAFGala IN NYC! @LucasHouseOrg pic.twitter.com/rEalKRXJAR
— Maggie O'Mara (@maggieKTVB7) June 11, 2015
Speaking with KTVB, Noah shared about his brother, "I like everything about him, he's perfect.”
Evidently, the two brothers have a special connection that even obstacles can’t seem to break.
Meanwhile, 7-year-old Aynslie surpassed a 5km run in West Palm Beach, Florida, despite having an external metal fixator attached to her leg.
The six-pound metal fixator did not stop the young girl from finishing the race. Her mom captured the moment in a heartwarming video.