HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — A summer camp in Tampa takes the time to teach kids with disabilities how to ride a bicycle.

For most of the children, it was the first time they've been on a bike.

It was offered at University area Community Development Corporation, where a variety of programs are available. Rob Zimprich who is CFO and also a board member of Bike/Walk Tampa Bay explains how the camp offers freedom and adventure to its participants.

"Just the sense of accomplishment they get and the self esteem it builds and the confidence is just incredible, and the smiles on their faces always just tugs on my heartstrings with that one,"  said Zimprich.

Spectrum Bay News 9 followed 8-year-old Gabby Kiel last week through one of her sessions.

Michelle Kiehl cheered on her daughter, Gabby, at the iCan Bike Camp at University Area CDC, shouting words of encouragement.

For the second summer n a row, Gabby is trying to learn how to ride a bicycle.

"First time she didn’t have enough muscle and joint control and balance and she couldn’t push the pedals," said Kiehl.

Gabby is pushing the pedals this year.

"You gotta pedal, lots and lots of pedaling," said Gabby.

Lots of pedaling, means lots of practice for the new rider.

Gabby gets individual attention from professionals and volunteers at camp.

"One of my favorite parts is going fast, just not falling, not scared, not like, 'Baahhh, I’m gonna fall off my bike,'" said Gabby.

The camp helps children with disabilities learn to ride.

Gabby was diagnosed with a rare brain disorder as a baby. With brain tissue pushing from her skull into her spinal canal, her activity level has been limited.

"Gabby is the little girl who's always been told no, she can’t do things: she can’t swim, she can’t play volleyball, she can’t basketball, she can’t ago running with a bunch other kids around the block," said Kiehl. 

With recent improvements to her health, brain surgery is no longer necessary.

Kiehl says bike camp has been boosting Gabby's confidence.

"This will give her much confidence, just in life. Being able to get out and have more freedom to do things," said Kiehl.

When Gabby graduates to two wheels by the end of camp, Kiehl has hopes for family bike rides.

"She’s gonna be able to ride down the block or go somewhere with dad and I, maybe ride the Pinellas trails, how nice would that be?" said Kiehl.

"It’s gonna be fun," anticipates Gabby.

But the little girl also wants to give back.

"When I know how to ride a bike, maybe I can teach other kids that are homeless," said Gabby.

The lessons for Gabby are definitely about more than learning to ride.

"I think this is gonna be great for her," said Kiehl.

A great job, a great sense of accomplishment for these new riders whose world just opened up a little wider.