​Local stroke survivor takes on 130 mile cycling challenge to Make May Purple for charity

A Derbyshire stroke survivor is preparing to take on a 130 mile cycling challenge this May, to raise vital funds for the Stroke Association’s awareness month, Make May Purple for stroke.

Steve Bowker from Hayfield, is planning to tackle the Yorkshire Dales Cycleway Challenge on Saturday 12 May - Monday 14 May 2018. He will cycle from Malham in the Yorkshire Dales via Settle, Wharfedale and Wensleydale to Grinton, Swaledale, Hawes and Dent before returning via Clapham to Malham, climbing a total of 4,000 metres.

Steve plans to cycle during Make May Purple for Stroke, when the Stroke Association is encouraging everyone to go purple and raise vital funds to show support people affected by stroke.

May, in 2014, was also the month Steve had his stroke while rock climbing in Derbyshire. He went to reach up but couldn’t raise his arm, move his leg, or speak clearly. Luckily his friend and climbing partner called Mountain Rescue and he was taken to Royal Hallamshire Hospital.

Just six months after his stroke, Steve took part in the Wicklow Moonlight Challenge to raise more than £2,500 for the Stroke Association, where he walked 28km through the Wicklow Mountains. He then raised £3,000 by taking on the 140 mile Coast to Coast Cycle route in June 2016 cycling from Workington to Newcastle.

Steve said: “As a previously active outdoor enthusiast, climber and cyclist, this ride is very much a personal challenge and another milestone on my long road to recovery from stroke. It’s also an opportunity to raise awareness of stroke, inspire other survivors and give back to a very worthwhile cause. I know it’s going to be a real test for me, it’s a known hilly route with 4,000m of climbing, but I’m ready for the challenge.”

Joanne Burr, Community and Events Fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: “For many stroke survivors, getting their life back on track after a stroke means overcoming life-changing disabilities and emotional trauma. But they can’t do this on their own. Every day people across the UK are regaining their independence with the support of the Stroke Association and others. We’re incredibly grateful to Steve for taking on this gruelling challenge to help raise funds for people affected by stroke; he is a real inspiration and proof that there is life after stroke.”

You can sponsor Steve at: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/steve-bowkeryorksdalescyclewaychallenge. Go Purple for Pounds this May and raise money to help the Stroke Association reach and support more stroke survivors on their journey to regain their independence. Visit www.stroke.org.uk/makemaypurplefor more information.