Press release -
Kent stroke survivor set to tackle Thames Bridges Bike Ride
A 70-year-old stroke survivor from Canterbury is set to take part in the Stroke Association’s Thames Bridges Bike Ride on an adapted trike to raise vital funds for the charity.
Grandfather of four, Robin Cant, a former lecturer for 25 years at the then Christ Church College, had a stroke in 1996 which paralysed the right hand side of his body. Robin regained some movement after his stroke, and uses a stick to aid his walking.
Robin plans to take on the 35 mile route at the Thames Bridges Bike Ride on Sunday 26 June, using a specialised bike. He said: “Since having a stroke I have been involved in a whole range of stroke-related projects and research, and in a way, stroke has been a very interesting second career for me.
“During this time I have come to recognise the great value of the work being done by the Stroke Association and also the importance of raising awareness of stroke.
“After I had my stroke, my main cycling problem was keeping my right foot on the pedal. Last year my children encouraged me to invest in an adapted trike which meant that all the controls are on the left hand side, and my right foot is held in place by a specially adapted pedal and velcro.
“I’ve been practicing on my trike for the past month, and really looking forward for taking on the challenge.”
Rob Hope, Fundraising Manager at the Stroke Association, said: “With around 152,000 strokes a year in the UK – that’s around one every three and a half minutes - it is vital that we have people like Robin to help raise funds. We’re really grateful to Robin for all his support. The funds raised by Robin will help ensure we can be there for even more families affected by stroke.”
The Thames Bridges Bike Ride will take place on Sunday 26 June. The bike ride will start and finish at Lee Valley VeloPark in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Supporters can take part in our 8, 35 or 50 mile route. For more information, please visit: www.stroke.org.uk/TBBR2016
It’s not too late to support Robin, just visit www.justgiving.com/RobinCant
Topics
A stroke is a brain attack which happens when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, caused by a clot or bleeding in the brain. There are around 152,000 strokes in the UK every year and it is the leading cause of severe adult disability. There are over 1.2 million people in the UK living with the effects of stroke.
Stroke Association is a charity. We believe in life after stroke and together we can conquer stroke. We work directly with stroke survivors and their families and carers, with health and social care professionals and with scientists and researchers. We campaign to improve stroke care and support people to make the best recovery they can. We fund research to develop new treatments and ways of preventing stroke. The Stroke Helpline (0303 303 3100) provides information and support on stroke. More information can be found at www.stroke.org.uk
