Dear Friends

In early January 2015 I suffered a severe stroke that paralysed my left side.

As part of my rehabilitation it was suggested I try to learn to cycle again.

By chance in October 2016 I came across the Wheels 4 fun disability cycling group see: http://www.wheels4funleeds.wordpress.co.uk. The group was set up in June 2016 by two retired physiotherapists and an experienced cycling instructor. It meets at Meanwood Valley Farm each Saturday morning. Along with a number of volunteers the group aims to help people who are disabled or have neurological problems (many of the group have MS, Parkinsons and others have suffered strokes or other brain injuries) to return to cycling. This is achieved by the provision of specially adapted cycles such as balance bicycles (bicycles without pedals!) tricycles, tandems and recumbent cycles. The group survives wholly on charitable donations or gifts. As I am sure you can imagine the bicycles they provide are expensive as is the cycling equipment they also supply.

For my part I commenced on a tricycle and then progressed to tandem riding. In July of this year I began practising on a balance bicycle. By mid August I finally mastered riding a normal but adapted bicycle

On the 12th November the group have organised a sponsored bicycle ride day at the Brownlee Centre at Bodington Hall in Leeds. The centre has a superb 1.1 mile cycle circuit. I am hoping to complete 5 solo laps. In order to show my appreciation to the group I would like to raise a meaningful sum so that the group can purchase new equipment.

If you feel kind enough to add to my sponsorship I have set up a just giving page.

With my grateful thanks,

Mike Smith.