Riding for a good cause

Mike Ashton gears up for the RideLondon-Essex 100

In the UK, 2,500 people sustain a spinal cord injury each year. In September 2019, following a road traffic accident while cycling in Greece, I became a member of that club. An injury is a life-changing event – for me it means that I am paralysed from just below the shoulders and the rest of my body. This has had a huge impact on both me and my family, friends, and colleagues. However, they have all been amazing in rallying around, which brings me on to the Spinal Injuries Association (SIA).

After my operation and a period in intensive care, I went to the Sheffield spinal injuries unit. As well as being a fantastic medical facility, it was there that I first met the SIA. For me that person (from SIA) has been a role model ever since, somebody to talk to, to bounce ideas off or simply have a grumble to. A good friend. The message was helpfully simple: you can do some things you did before, you might just have to do them differently… And don't give up.

Of course, the SIA do many other things as well to give everyone hope and a fulfilled life after spinal cord injury – education, counselling, peer support, advocacy and campaign for change. They are an extraordinary charity with hugely motivated, kind people – please do check out their website for more information at www.spinal.co.uk.

So, to the ride itself. Together with a small group of family, friends, and colleagues I am taking part in RideLondon-Essex 100 this year. Last time I rode the event was in 2019 as an able-bodied cyclist. Possibly one of the few people to take part as both disabled and able-bodied in consecutive events. We are aiming to raise as much money as possible for the SIA (current total around £30,000). Times are challenging for everybody – however, if you would like to donate, my fundraising site is www.justgiving.com/Mike-Ashton160919. 

Everybody loves the training – especially the hills! Due to my paralysis, I use a recumbent cycle (cycling with arms not legs) and it has been interesting navigating the roads and making sure I am visible to drivers (and tractors)! I typically try to ride with others, which makes me more visible within the group. I have however found drivers to be really good at keeping their distance and indeed giving me the occasional wave and smile – encouraging as you strive for the longer distances. It's also been great to hear the Monday morning stories from my colleagues as they discover new places on bikes they have not ridden for a number of years.

The message across the team has been to enjoy cycling, it’s not a race on the day – rather, the RideLondon-Essex 100 on 29 May will be an occasion for smiles and enjoyment. The charity will be supporting us along with their other riders on the day and I know some family and friends will be making their way to London to give a cheer. Celebrating after the event – I think it’ll be a quiet rest and a cool drink!