Throughout Bike Week, we’re reminding everyone about the many benefits of safer cycling, especially in these challenging times.
We spoke to three of our clients who have all been cycling to help continue their rehabilitation, improve their mental health and even to help others.
Wyn’s cycling club
Following a knee operation in March 2010, Wyn Jenkins had to have his right leg amputated. A keen sportsman, he found it a challenge to be involved in the activities he previously enjoyed, including rugby and marathon running. After his surgery, Wyn came to us to help him access the specialist treatment and support he needed.
Since then, Wyn has worked with his prosthetist to develop an artificial limb specifically for cycling, enabling him to be comfortable on a standard road bicycle. He’s also helped set up a cycling club in his home town, open to people of all abilities. Two of the members in his group are fellow amputees.
Sadly, like many other sports, the group’s activities have been massively restricted by the lockdown. But this hasn’t stopped Wyn, 69, who’s kept things rolling by hosting indoor virtual cycling training sessions for his club members to help them get through this uncertain time. Wyn has made sure they’re able to carry on taking part in the activity they love, together, as a team.
The always modest Wyn refused to take any credit for setting up such a brilliant cycling club and hosting the sessions during the pandemic but did acknowledge the difference they’ve made.
“The lockdown has been tough for many people and a lot of the participants in my sessions have confirmed that the social interaction, along with a shared passion for cycling, has helped them enormously.” Wyn said.
“Our cycling club is open to anyone, whether they are able bodied or living with their own disabilities and other physical issues. The important thing for me is that the members don’t define me by my disability; I’m just Wyn to them, and I love that.”
Read more about Wyn’s story.
Moves for Meso
Bob McBratney, aged 64, was diagnosed with mesothelioma last September. A terminal cancer of the lining of the lungs, it’s most commonly associated with exposure to asbestos decades ago. Following his diagnosis, we’ve supported Bob and helped him to secure essential funds for future specialist treatment and care.
Bob needs to stay as fit as possible so he’s able to have his treatment, and was able to purchase an electric bike just as the country went into lockdown.
Instead of focusing on an uncertain future, Bob is selflessly thinking of others by raising funds for charity with his legal team by taking part in ‘Moves for Meso’. This is the latest campaign launched by Mesothelioma UK, a charity we work closely with, encouraging people to collectively cover 5,000km in five weeks by walking, running, or cycling.
Bike Week felt like the perfect time for Bob to speak out on his fundraising and continuing to improve his fitness. He explained: “My life has changed dramatically since I was diagnosed. However, I was very keen to get back to cycling as it was an activity that my wife, Joanne, and I enjoyed together, and it’s important for me to stay as fit as possible to ensure I can continue my treatment.
“Cycling has given me back some of my independence, and I’m really pleased to be able raise funds with my legal team for the Moves for Meso campaign. The charity’s work is vital in supporting people in the same situation as me.”
Bob is classed as vulnerable due to the illness in his lungs. Nicola Handley, our personal injury specialist who represents our client, knows the physical and mental benefits he’s enjoyed from being able to get out on his bike.
Nicola said: “It’s great to see how Bob has remained positive throughout his treatment, and continues to help support others who’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma. Bob’s determination to battle through the disease while remaining fit and active with his cycling is nothing short of extraordinary.”
Read more about Bob’s story.
On the cycle road to recovery
Ian McCrickard was driving his car on the A5086 when he was involved in a head-on collision with an oncoming vehicle in October 2018. He lost consciousness and sustained severe orthopaedic injuries, as well as a minor head injury. Ian and his two sons, who were passengers, had to be airlifted to hospital where Ian remained for several weeks.
He used to enjoy going on long bike rides over the fells near his home, and was understandably worried that he wouldn’t be able to cycle again after his accident. However, as part of his rehabilitation he secured an exercise bicycle, and after increasing his fitness he can now use an electric bike to cycle outdoors with his friends.
Ian explained: “At the start of my rehab process, I could only use an indoor bike. I really missed my friends and the camaraderie. Gradually I increased my fitness and I can now use my electric bike, which means I can cycle outdoors with my friends, like I used to. The bike helps me manage the hills and distance if I start struggling.”
Our client’s injuries still have a lasting effect but he is getting better every day. When the country went into lockdown it was challenging for Ian, like so many others, but being able to get out on the bike has brought many benefits.
Ian said: “While nothing will change what happened to me, I’m glad to be on the road to recovery, and I believe the bikes have been a big help with this."
Read more about Ian's story.
Seven Days of Safer Cycling
If you’re new to road cycling then check out our safety tips and quiz to help you stay safe as restrictions ease and the traffic builds up.
Take me there now.
Turning Point – June 2020
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