16 September 2019 – the day of my accident while cycling in Greece. It’s been described as horrific, devastating, a life changing event - a spinal cord injury (SCI). I’m not sure however if 1or 2 words can describe it. In my case my whole body is paralysed from just below my shoulders. But the extent of each SCI is different. It has a different impact on the individual and also their family. Regardless however the impact is huge and the daily challenges never-ending.

I was fortunate enough to come across someone from the SIA shortly after arriving at the Sheffield hospital spinal injuries unit. He has a similar level of injury and our discussions provided hope and a down-to-earth perspective (he has since become a good friend and won a gold medal in Tokyo!).

This is just one way in which the SIA helps. It does many more things. And, your donation will help them to provide greater access for SCI injured people to all their services.

29 May 2022 - I will be riding on a recumbent hand cycle in Ride London 100, a 100 mile cycle ride around London and Essex…… possibly the first person to participate as an able-bodied and then subsequently a differently abled (disabled) rider in consecutive events, 2019 and 2022.

Thank you.