Local Man Overcomes Disability, first-time motorcyclist in Plover is inspiring others who have disabilities after overcoming one of his biggest fears.

"Giving me a ride, nice refreshing breeze in my hair."

Those are the words of Travis Mathee after riding a motorcycle for the first time. The 21 year old has been wheelchair bound since the age of 8 after being diagnosed with a neurological disease, and the ride was an opportunity he couldn't pass up.

Thanks to the Harley Classic Riders of Waupaca, Travis was able to realize a life long dream. The organization got a sidecar for him to ride in, allowing him to bring the ventilator he depends on with.

Travis' true gift however, was being able to take a risk and try new things. He says that even though his condition may be debilitating for most, he's found ways to overcome it and live a more fulfilling life.

When the big moment finally arrived Travis couldn't help but be excited. He said that it was the ride of a lifetime for him, and he will never forget it.

Travis hopes that by going on the ride he will inspire others with disabilities to follow their dreams as well.

"Just take a hop on the wild side and you know, go for it. Go for it. You'll never know until you try."

Travis rode with the Classic Riders for more than 40 miles from Plover to Waupaca, and ended his trip with a picnic to celebrate his big day.
 

A Plover Man Has Life-long Dream Come True / NewsChannel 7 - WSAW TV Wausau, Northcentral Wisconsin Source: www.wsaw.comNewsChannel 7 - WSAW TV Wausau, Northcentral Wisconsin - Breaking News - Titan Weather - Local Sports - MyTV - 247 Weather - Stevens Point News - Marshfield - Marathon County - 54401 - 54403
 

From The Free Riders Press July issue 2009
 

I have strived to bring to the table an association between bikers/clubs, citizens and communities in which we both co-exist. This is one of those stories that I hope will encourage all to make the world a better place. 

Have you heard the expression, “You never know what you got till it’s gone.” To some people this never has a chance to be lived out due to disabilities. For some of these folks, the gone seems to far away to achieve in the first place. But this is not the case for one young man who is wheel chair bound and respirator dependent. At age of 8 Travis was diagnosed with, and has had many mountains to conquer over the last 13 years. 

Travis Mathe of Plover, WI wanted to go for a group motorcycle ride. With the help of Mary Hollman , a member of the Harley Classic Riders out of Central Wisconsin a wish was about to be granted. (The Harley Classic Riders purpose is to promote and improve the desired image of motorcycling among the general public, and to enhance the public's knowledge of motorcycles.)  () The HCR got a sidecar together, met for a quick meeting, then headed over to an anxiously waiting Travis. Hearing the bikes start up, Travis knew his dream was about to come true.  

On Saturday June 13th, I was asked if I would like to be a part of this ride by Rick and Sherral of Heckey Computer in Waupaca. www.heckeyscomputer.com After thinking about it for , “oh, 2 seconds”, I agreed to meet the group. I know from the past, that when an event like this happens, it is more often than not rewarding beyond belief. The feelings that are brought up in me by the honest, vibrant and jubilant recipients make for some satisfying contentment on my part. 

Travis who enjoys poetry, Hockey (especially the Red Wings), is a huge Star Wars fan (as noticed by the walls in his room), likes doing crafts and is planning on writing a book. He also enjoys reading to young children and encourages them to accept people as they are. No matter what they look like, their disabilities etc. ( I think adults should take this lesson to heart)

 I asked Travis what he thought of the ride. He said, “ The ride was awesome, the feeling of the wind rushing in my helmet, it was great.” In fact he said, “I told the driver he can go faster” After the 40 mile ride and a stop off at a small park in Cobbtown, the day was topped off with a BBQ at the Mathe home. 

“Laugh, Love and Learn= The three l’s of Life” is what Travis believes, and wants to let people know that you should never let your problems, trials and tribulations get you down. Being an inspiration to others is Travis’ goal and I personally think he is an excellent roll model.