His friends acted quickly, applying a makeshift tourniquet and calling 911. Miraculously, paramedics were nearby responding to an unrelated incident. They reached Robbie within 10 minutes, stemming the bleeding and saving his life.
Robbie underwent a series of operations, including grafts, in an attempt to save his arm. Despite initial hope, his arm became necrotic, and amputation became necessary to save his life. Thanks to the UMC Children's Hospital of Las Vegas, Robbie survived and began the challenging journey of adapting to his new reality.
The mental and emotional struggle was immense. Robbie was an accomplished athlete, excelling in lacrosse, basketball, and mountain biking, where he had achieved podium finishes in the Utah NICA League. Amputation seemed to shatter his dreams of competing.
However, with unwavering support from his parents (Rob and Wendy) and his mountain bike coaches, Robbie found the strength to look forward. He was determined to get back on his bike. Coaches Nate Talbot and Sam Stoddard spearheaded an incredible effort, reaching out to companies within the bike industry to help create a customized bike that would allow Robbie to not only ride but compete again.
The Bike of His Dreams
The cycling community responded with overwhelming generosity, donating parts and expertise to build Robbie a truly remarkable bike
The Road Back to Racing
Receiving his dream bike was just the first step. Learning to ride with one arm, especially on technical mountain bike trails, was an arduous process. Robbie had to master balance, control, and new techniques, all while building strength and endurance. (Huge thanks to Shriners Children's Hospital of Salt Lake City for providing his prosthetic.) Through sheer determination, Robbie progressed rapidly and was ready for the NICA season in August of 2024.
His first race at Soldier Hollow was a test of his resilience. Robbie flew out of the staring gate and was crushing the technical course. Encountering a flat tire on his first lap dropped hopes of Robbie finishing the race. However, thanks to his donated Tannus inserts, Robbie was able to keep pedaling, fix the flat and finish the race, boosting his confidence. He pushed through a season of challenges with the help of all his donated equpment—flats, broken chains, and even his prosthetics slipping off—ultimately qualifying for and racing in the State Championships.
Looking Ahead
Robbie's goals extend beyond high school. He dreams of representing the United States in the Paralympics for mountain biking. To help Robbie and his family realize this dream, please consider donating to their GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-robbie-seamans-unstoppable-journey
Share Robbie's incredible story to inspire others to "Keep Pedaling!"
