Hi, I'm Sam 👋

Before I tell you my story, I need to tell you about a team of absolute nutcases 🚴😂.

They've chosen to come together and ride over 400 miles (Wymondham 2 Paris) in just 4 days, with one goal: to help me out.

This will be no easy challenge. There will be blood, sweat, tears, and probably a fair bit of chafing along the way. Honestly, I'm quite glad I can't use my legs—otherwise they might be trying to rope me into cycling it too!

Nine years ago, I had a diving injury that left me tetraplegic. Overnight, my life was turned upside down. I lost movement, independence, and everything changed.

But over time, I rebuilt my life 💪

I've found a new normal and, in many ways, a life richer than I ever thought possible. What began as a life-changing injury led me to incredible people, experiences, and passions that may never have crossed my path otherwise. Art became a huge part of my recovery 🎨, and I've been fortunate to auction many of my paintings in support of great causes. I'm a powerchair skills trainer and was honoured to receive Volunteer of the Year from Backup Charity 🏆. I also volunteer with the Pain Management Clinic and serve as an ambassador for the Rooprai Spinal Trust.

Of course, it hasn't all been plain sailing. There have been some pretty shit times—metaphorically and literally 😂—but it's the same for everybody. What matters is that this journey has given me opportunities, friendships, and experiences I never imagined possible. Looking back, I'm genuinely grateful for the people I've met, the adventures I've had, and the life I've built along the way ❤️

Unfortunately, a year ago, everything changed again.

After developing a serious abscess, I was sent to what felt like a death sentence: bed rest. I was overlooked for months whilst fighting for help. By the time I was finally seen by the specialist I needed, I'd spent over a year stuck in bed, living with pain and watching my strength, health, and independence slowly slip away.

This last year of setbacks has been harder than the injury itself. I've spent much of it on bed rest, watching summer pass me by while my strength and health deteriorated. It's been a year of pain, setbacks, fighting to be heard, and at times feeling completely gaslit by healthcare professionals.

I've finally started the surgery I've been waiting for and am currently recovering in Sheffield's spinal unit. My focus is on healing properly, rebuilding my strength, and getting back to my new normal. And you better believe that when I'm out again, I'll be back to living life to the fullest 💪

When I'm finally able to come off bed rest, I can't wait to exercise again, and I think a handcycle will be the perfect way to do that 🚴‍♂️. Spending the last year confined to bed has made me realise just how important exercise is to my physical and mental wellbeing. A handcycle would help me rebuild my fitness and strength after such a difficult year while also getting me back outdoors doing something I genuinely enjoy.

There's also something wonderfully fitting about Andrea and his team taking on a cycling challenge to raise money for me 🚴. Their efforts could help me get a cycle of my own, giving me the freedom to get active again, explore the outdoors, and focus on the future rather than the setbacks of the past year.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story ❤️

And don't forget to live life to the fullest 🤙