Nearly $120K raised for Bow Island child with rare condition

Posted on July 16, 2026 by Ryan Dahlman

By Anna Smith
Southern Alberta Newspapers
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Ridin’ For Kids Foundation presented final fundraising numbers in a cheque for $118,613.40, which will go to improving life for young Emerson Wikkerink.

The funds were raised over the course of a three-month period, both through ongoing donations and proceeds of the Father’s Day weekend ride and auction.

Having presented the final amount to the family on July 2 at Badlands Harley-Davidson, organizer Ivan Reimer expressed gratitude and amazement at the “monster of a machine” the movement became.

“[It’s] another record-breaking year for Ridin’ For Kids Foundation and life changing for Emerson,” said Reimer. “It’s incredible to watch this evolve and become this monster of a machine in just three short months.

“I cannot express my thanks enough to the Ridin’ For Kids team, to all the volunteers, and to each and every one that played a part in the fundraising. Without all of you, none of this is possible.”

The funds will be used to help get Wikkerink, who has a rare and progressive genetic condition called KIF1A-Associated Neurological Disorder, or KAND, a pair of robotic legs.

This condition has no cure and limited treatment options, and often results in increased reliance on mobility aids as they age, alongside common symptoms such as intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, epilepsy and motor challenges.

The robotic legs will help Wikkerink to continue to be a kid, playing and keeping up with his sisters.

Upcoming for similar organizations is another ride for Ridin’ For Kids Foundation Edmonton, with its ride starting at Blackjacks Roadhouse in Nisku on July 18.