Patrick Corrocher of Catasauqua received an unexpected surprise Dec. 25, 2013.

On his Christmas wish list was a new bicycle. Ben Ferenchak of Catasauqua turned Patrick's wish into a reality by personally delivering a refurbished bike – a 1995 Cannondale Six.

According to Patrick's mother Arlana, Patrick previously used his father John's bike until the bike became inoperable. At that point, Arlana utilized Facebook, asking her friends if they were aware of any used bikes for sale.

Ferenchak said while browsing Arlana's Facebook profile he read the post and immediately sprung into action. Ferenchak emailed former team members of the Pennsylvania Perimeter Ride Against Cancer (PPRAC) asking for help.

"I sent an email out and asked if anyone had a bike," he said.

Ferenchak also solicited community members for donations. Not too long after searching for a bike, someone contacted Ferenchak and told him they had a used bike frame they wanted to donate. With the frame in hand, Ferenchak then began reaching out further, looking for rims that would fit the bike. Eventually he found a pair of rims that fit the bike perfectly.

Fitness Central, off 309 in Schnecksville, put the bike together, free of charge, Ferenchak said.

On Christmas Day, Ferenchak made a surprise visit to the Corrocher's residence with the bike. Patrick said he was not expecting a visit from Ferenchak, let alone a new bike.

"I was shocked and confused," Patrick said.

After presenting the bike, Ferenchak read a poem to the family he personally wrote titled "The Bike Under the Christmas Tree."

"As I absorb what just happened these past few weeks the tears start streaming down my cheeks," part of the poem reads. "Forget about what you read in the papers or watch on CNN. The world is full of good people."

Ferenchak is no stranger to extending his heart throughout the Catasauqua community. In this case, his love of riding bikes and recalling his youth motivated him to take action.

"I know what it's like to be a kid who wants a new bike," Ferenchak said. "I like to help out once in a while."

Patrick's grandfather, Catasauqua resident Bob Bastian, said he was impressed with Ferenchak's gift.

"In my estimation, it was the true spirit of Christmas, the act of giving," Bastian said. "I thank Ben and all those who gave."

According to Ferenchak, 11 area organizations and individuals donated to the cause.

Arlana, who last summer was diagnosed with leukemia and is now in remission, said it is "just amazing how everyone came together."

"The bike was just a miracle," added Patrick's father John.

Patrick last year rode in the Spoke Folk tour. He said he again intends to ride in the tour this year. As for riding in PPRAC, Patrick said he plans to spend the next year or two to train for the ride in the future.

Until then Patrick will continue to enjoy hitting the open road on his bike. While on his bike, it's safe to say he will never forget Christmas 2013.

"I really appreciate it," Patrick said. "It's a great thing they did."