Elementary and high school students from the Bay Area have teamed up to create a custom wheelchair for Harold, a paralyzed dog and ambassador of UP Academy in San Mateo. Dubbed “the dinosaur,” the fiberglass sleeve with skateboard wheels was developed after a year of hard work and has given Harold newfound mobility. The students involved have developed a website to share their design, aiming to bring smiles to dogs in need around the world.Determined to improve the life of a paralyzed dog named Harold, students from Bay Area elementary and high schools have collaborated to create a custom wheelchair. After a year of work, their efforts have paid off, and the happy pup is now enjoying his newfound mobility, thanks to a unique and innovative design.
Harold, the cheerful ambassador of UP Academy in San Mateo, was rescued by the Sheckley family about a year ago after being abandoned on the side of the road. Despite his lack of mobility, Harold’s upbeat attitude and resilience have been an inspiration to those around him. UP Academy Founder Tanya Sheckley describes him as “the happiest and most smiley dog.”The students at UP Academy worked together with the Mountain View High School Capstone Engineering class to design a custom wheelchair for Harold. After a year of hard work, the students presented Harold with his new set of wheels – a fiberglass sleeve dubbed “the dinosaur.” Equipped with skateboard wheels, the innovative design has given Harold the gift of mobility and independence.
The project provided an opportunity for students of all ages to work together and see how their education can make a difference in the world. From kindergarten to high school, the students involved in the project were proud of their work and thrilled to see Harold enjoying his new wheelchair.
One of the most significant outcomes of the project is the creation of a website that shares the wheelchair design with others around the globe. By making this information accessible, the students hope to bring smiles to the faces of dogs in need, as well as their families, wherever they may be.
The inspiring story of Harold and the students who created his custom wheelchair is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. By working together, these young minds have not only improved the life of one dog but have also set the groundwork for helping countless others in need. Through their ingenuity and compassion, they have demonstrated that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a lasting impact on the lives of others.