Finding Freedom Again: Lachelle Stevenson’s Journey with Adaptive Cycling
For years, Lachelle Stevenson of O’Fallon, Illinois, found joy in running. It wasn’t just a form of exercise—it was her freedom. “I loved the wind on my face and the freedom I felt running outdoors,” she recalls. “Running gave me a sense of independence.”
But that sense of freedom was suddenly taken away. After re-injuring her neck and back, even simple movements became painful. The idea of running again felt out of reach.
“I felt like I had lost a piece of myself. The pain wasn’t just physical—it was emotional. I wondered if I’d ever enjoy the openness of being outside again.”
A New Path Forward
Everything changed when Lachelle discovered adaptive cycling. At first, she wasn’t sure what to expect. Could this really bring her back to the outdoors she loved so much? The moment she got on an adaptive bike for the first time, her world opened back up.
“When I finally rode an adaptive bike, I felt free again. The wind on my face reminded me that my body might have changed, but my spirit hadn’t.”
For Lachelle, adaptive cycling wasn’t just about fitness—it was about rediscovering herself.
“Being an adaptive rider taught me that strength isn’t about avoiding challenges—it’s about finding new ways forward.”
Joining the World TEAM Community
Lachelle’s journey with adaptive cycling deepened when her twin sister, Rochelle, told her about World TEAM and its inclusive cycling event, Face if America: Gettysburg. Rochelle was joining Team Atlanta, and when Lachelle heard about the organization’s mission to bring adaptive and able-bodied athletes together through cycling, she didn’t hesitate.
That decision would change her life. Through World TEAM’s cycling challenges—including multiple Face of America: Gettysburg rides (’21, ’23, ’24, ’25, and ’26) and Face of America: Liberty (’22)—Lachelle found not only a sport she loved, but a community that embraced her.
“Joining one of their events gave me more than just miles on the road—it gave me confidence, friendship, and a reminder that I wasn’t alone,” she says. Riding alongside others who had faced their own challenges inspired her to push harder and dream bigger.
Riding With Purpose
For Lachelle, participating in World TEAM cycling challenges is about more than finishing a ride. It’s about showing what’s possible when people come together. “Being part of World TEAM has been life-changing,” she says. “It’s more than cycling—it’s about teamwork, courage, and proving that no matter what obstacles we face, we can keep moving forward together.”
As she looks ahead to future rides, Lachelle carries with her not only the strength she rediscovered but also the community that helped her find it. Her story is a powerful reminder that when life changes your path, you can still keep moving forward—and sometimes, that new path can lead to something even greater.
Why This Ride Matters
Lachelle’s story reflects what makes Face of America: Gettysburg so extraordinary. It’s more than a bike ride — it’s a shared commitment to resilience, teamwork, and the belief that no one rides alone.
Join Us
Visit our Programs Page to register as a rider, volunteer, or supporter for our annual events.
