Cycling after a Stroke

Sue Watts, David's wife, made contact with Cycling UK's Steve Marsden at the Disability Cycling Centre in Sheffield after being referred by physiotherapist Alison at the Park Rehabilitation Centre, Rotherham.

David had suffered from a stroke in January, which caused him to lose strength in one side of his body and his speech. They'd both been wondering if David would ever be able to cycle again.

We were both bowled over by what he was able to achieve yesterday, his self esteem/confidence has been increased by a huge amount.

Sue, David's wife

Aged 75, previously fit and a keen cyclist all his life covering several thousand miles a year, David was constantly reminded of what he was missing by the sight of his three professional quality bikes hung up in the garage - and he wanted to see if he could get back on his wheels again.

Sue came with David to the centre in Hillsborough Park where Steve and the volunteers guided him towards a suitable bike. After five minutes advice and a little practice, David was away.

"We get many people using the specially adapted bikes at Hillsborough Park," says Steve. "It's days like these that make a real difference to people's lives and all the effort worthwhile. At Hillsborough, we benefit from the help of a team of volunteers, so thanks to Caroline, Andy, Charlie and Graham, for their continued support."