RVA in blaze orange is making 14-year-old Brandon “Brad” Farbstein move forward like he has never moved before. Diagnosed with a rare form of dwarfism at the age of 2, Farbstein has not let metatropic dysplasia define who he is or place limits on his dreams.
Farbstein’s skeletal condition progresses over time, true to its Greek derivative from the word “metatropos,” meaning changing form. This has resulted in ongoing orthopedic challenges for Farbstein and several significant surgeries on his legs. Doctors informed the teenager that a mobility device would soon be needed, as Farbstein was unable to walk long distances without experiencing pain and fatigue.
Determined to keep moving forward, Farbstein shared with his parents his dream to own a Segway to help him navigate challenging spaces. The Farbstein family quickly reached out to Segway of Richmond and was warmly welcomed by its president, Buck Ward.
After figuring out a way to lower the handle bars to accommodate Farbstein’s short stature, Ward began teaching the teen to safely ride a Segway and helped him steer through downtown Richmond, including the Governor’s Mansion. According to Farbstein, he had never felt so free. He quickly determined the Segway was a viable mobility option for him.
However, reality set in when the family learned of the power-driven device’s hefty price tag. The Farbsteins encouraged their son to figure out a way to earn money toward buying his own Segway.
As a result, the teen turned to the RVA logo, an open source template by RVA Creates, which is often found in sticker format on car bumpers around the region. Tapping into the popularity of the RVA logo, Farbstein realized that many people—including his mom—wanted to share their pride for the region but didn’t want to put an adhesive sticker on their vehicle.
The idea of manufacturing a RVA car magnet was born.
Richmonders can now purchase Farbstein’s magnets while contributing to the cause “Help Brad Move.” Designed in bright orange, Farbstein’s creation is eye-catching and inspiring. “Orange makes me feel warm and energized. It boosts my mood, making me feel like anything is possible,” explains the teenager.
The teen created a Facebook page to sell his magnets and raise money for his Segway. The page is also a place where he can share his personal story, educate Richmonders about dwarfism, and inspire others. As a result, he has created a community that has rallied around his cause.
“By celebrating what makes us unique, we are more open to accepting others. There is nothing better than seeing a smile on a stranger’s face, rather than a stare just because you look different,” says Farbstein.
“I have never felt as free and exhilarated as I did while riding the Segway,” concludes Farbstein. “It provided me with smooth, pain-free movement that my own legs are incapable of. I am looking forward to purchasing my own Segway so that I can participate in experiences that require a significant amount of walking. This device will help me move forward not only in terms of distance, but will provide me with a huge leap toward more freedom.”