HAYDEN — When Erika Bledsoe started with North Idaho Physical Therapy four years ago, she couldn't stand.

Saturday, with special equipment from Team Hoyt and assistance from her therapists, the 9-year-old will be competing in the Hayden Triathlon, a half-mile swim, 12-mile bike race and 3.1-mile run.

“We’re very blessed she got to come here because it’s been life-changing," said Erin Bledsoe, Erika's mother.

The idea was floated to the Bledsoe family in April and Erika immediately took to the idea. 

"The youngster with disabilities was like, ‘Yeah, I want to race,’” physical therapist Stephanie Morrison said. 

Morrison is going to participate in the biking portion alongside both Erika and physical therapist Jeremy Dye. 

“I think six months ago, she wouldn’t have been able to do this,” Morrison said. "This year has been a big year for independence.”   

Erika has started hitting regular milestones about every 12 therapy visits. Gait and balance have been the main goals for her physical therapists.

“She gets to do it and it’s pretty fantastic,” Bledsoe said. 

The Bledsoes spent part of their Fourth of July weekend hiking with Erika and her 4-H adventure group at Farragut Park, something that would have been a challenge in the past.   

For a therapy exercise Monday, Morrison set the tone for the upcoming triathlon race. 

“On your mark, get set, start climbing the stairs,” Morrison said. 

“Are you ready for your race?” Whitney Sampson, director of marketing for North Idaho Physical Therapy, said. 

“Yes!” Erika said. 

    Stephanie Morrison gets Erika Bledsoe ready for an exercise Monday at North Idaho Physical Therapy in Hayden.