The family of an 8-year-old boy living with complex, bilateral club foot were stunned and heartbroken when they discovered his new leg braces were stolen from his mother's car – leg braces he desperately needs.
A thief ransacked the family's car and stole electronics and leg braces specifically designed for Riley, who lives in Victorville.
Riley underwent several operations before receiving the leg braces which helps with his mobility.
Without the leg braces, Riley can't get around.
"It's hard for me because my legs are going to hurt," Riley said. "I want my braces back… please."
Riley's grandmother Shirley was overwhelmed by the theft and said the family has gone through emotional and financial stresses just to get Riley to this point.
"Getting these braces was so hard, and he's actually facing another operation. So, yeah, it's very disheartening" she said.
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Riley's mother, who did not want to be identified, said her son received the braces through his health insurance, which she estimated cost about $5,000 – money the family does not have. She is afraid their insurer will not cover a replacement set.
"Everything got ripped away from us because if he's not in them, his feet could turn back in .. and we do it all over again," Riley's mother said.
The family is pleading for the leg braces to be returned, no questions asked.
"You need to turn them in somewhere. Even if you don't turn yourself in because he's a little guy and he needs them and he's been through 8 years of hell," Shirley said.
