Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

In November 2013, 5 days before my 33rd Birthday, whilst at work, I suffered a subarachnoid brain haemorrhage. I underwent life saving surgery, a procedure known as coil embolisation, and was cared for in the University Hospital Wales (UHW) specialist neuro-departments. I have spent the last 3 years recovering from this life changing event; regaining my mobility and coordination in my right arm and leg, and adapting to a new me with cognitive function difficulties, short term memory limitations and chronic (neuro) fatigue as a result of my brain injury. Whilst I continue to adapt to the complexities of every day life with my new brain, this challenge represents the pinnacle of a long physical journey. After my SAH I could barely walk. Following a 10 month programme at 1 year post SAH I walked 6 miles. It took me a week to recover. At 2 years I had rebuilt the strength and mobility in my right arm and returned to play hockey for my local team. At 3-4 years I want to achieve this epic challenge of cycling 427 km and fulfilling a dream to visit Vietnam and Cambodia.

In October 2016 my best friend's Mum, the wonderful Sue, sadly lost her life to a catastrophic subarachnoid brain haemorrhage. Sue was an inspirational women, 'salt of the earth', strong, loyal, trusting, funny and caring. She had the strength of character that you aspire to have.That is why I am teaming up with Sam (Sue's Niece) to embark on this epic challenge.

The challenge itself is exactly that, an EPIC challenge! Cycling 420KM over 6 days in 30 degree heat. (Please visit our team page for more info) Not only is this taking my mobility and fitness to another level, I will also have to overcome the associated difficulties I have today, and I can't think of a more fitting way to challenge myself further on my recovery journey, than in Sue's memory.

Our challenge is entirely self-funded, meaning 100% of the money donated to myself on behalf of Headway Cardiff, or Sam on behalf of The Stroke Association will be given to our charities. After-care support for brain injury patients is limited and largely reliant on the services of charities such as Headway to provide the help and support that people and their loved ones need. I personally use the support of Headway Cardiff  and have met many people with both acquired and traumatic brain injury who are reliant on the wonderful services they provide.

My sincere thanks for your encouragement, continued support and donations, it really does make a difference.

Much Love,
Wend xx