Brynn’s Story of Independence & Mobility with GoBabyGo

Brynn, a VIPS child, is a bright and joyful little girl who has achieved a new level of mobility and independence thanks to a specially adapted ride-on car provided through the GoBabyGo program. GoBabyGo is a collaboration between Purdue University engineering students and local physical therapists from the Bartholomew School System in Columbus, Indiana. The goal is simple…give the gift of mobility to children with disabilities by modifying ride-on cars to meet their needs. 

Brynn was one of just five children recently chosen to receive a motorized car custom-designed by the Purdue engineering students as part of their class project. They first needed to understand more about Brynn and her mobility limitations therefore in September 2024, Rebecca, a physical therapist with the program, visited Brynn’s family to assess her physical abilities, take detailed measurements, and learn about her personality and preferences. That information was then shared with the GoBabyGo team so they could begin designing a ride-on car tailored just for Brynn. Two months later, the family traveled to Columbus to check on the progress and ensure Brynn’s car was sized correctly for her. Then by December, the special day had arrived–Brynn’s car was ready. Brynn gave her new wheels a test drive for the very first time and was able to take her car home! 

The GoBabyGo team went above and beyond to accommodate Brynn’s visual diagnosis and her bubbly personality. They included thoughtful features such as a large, bright “UP” button to activate the car and an option to use joysticks, giving Brynn the freedom to move independently in the future. Brynn’s car also has bright lights, music, and even a sound effect that mimics a loud engine revving up. With a remote control option for her family to drive it for now, Brynn is already hitting the buttons and enjoying the ride. 

Brynn’s mother, Brooke says the car has completely changed the relationship between Brynn and her brother, Rhett. The two reached a meaningful milestone moment when Brynn “chased” Rhett with her car and the siblings laughed as they had fun. “I can’t even begin to explain how happy this made me!” shared Brynn, “GoBabyGo has given [Brynn] the gift of mobility and interactive play with her siblings!” It reminded the family how far Brynn has come—and how much further she can go with the right support. But for Brooke, she said this is just the beginning. “We can’t wait to see what the future holds for Brynnie with her new car.” 

We are so happy for Brynn and her family! To learn more about GoBabyGo, please visit: https://sites.udel.edu/gobabygo/.