A Melbourne man, who suffered a life-changing stroke at the age of 12, is achieving some major goals as he journeys to the four furthest points of Australia using pedal power.
Tommy Quick has ridden his three-wheel bicycle, known as a recumbent trike, more than 3000 kilometres so far through South Australia and Western Australia, including the western-most point of mainland Australia Steep Point. Tommy has also raised almost $50,000 for Stroke Foundation in the process.
During November, the 28 year old will ride through Kadina – Port Wakefield – Balaklava [15 Nov] – Hamley Bridge – Freeling – Greenock – Nuriootpa – Angaston [16 Nov] – Sedan – Mannum [17-8 Nov] – Murray Bridge – Tailem Bend [19 Nov] – Cooke Plains – Yumali – Ky-Ki - Coonalpyn [20 Nov] – Culburra – Tintinara - Keith [21 Nov] - Bordertown [22-3 Nov], and into Victoria. His final destination will be Cape York in far North Queensland.
Tommy said it is a tough ride at times, but he is grateful for the warm and welcome response he's been receiving from locals along the way.
"People have been really interested in what I am doing and have also been openly sharing stories about how stroke has impacted them or their families," Tommy said.
"It's good to get people talking about stroke. I want them to know that stroke can happen at any age, but it does not mean your life is over."
"After Tommy's stroke, he spent five weeks in a coma and then learnt to talk and walk again against the odds.
"I have always set myself goals in my recovery, but this ride is by far the biggest," Tommy said.
"The final distance is more than 9,000 kilometres, so I am one third of the way there. It's an enormous test mentally and physically, but I'm determined to give it my best shot. You've only got one life so why not aim high."
As well as sharing his personal experience with stroke to raise awareness of the disease and break down pre-conceived perceptions about disability, Tommy is raising funds for Stroke Foundation. Funds raised will help Stroke Foundation deliver support programs to survivors of stroke and their families.
Stroke Foundation South Australia State Manager Luke Hays applauded Tommy for his drive and tenacity and encouraged local residents to support him.
"Recovery from stroke does not end when people leave hospital. It is an ongoing journey for the survivor and their families," Mr Hays said.
"I am keeping a close eye on Tommy's journey. He is an incredible example of what can be achieved with hard-work, determination and commitment. Not all survivors of stroke will be able to achieve what Tommy has, but all gains in rehabilitation are important."
"Tommy demonstrates there is life after stroke."
Each year up to 600 Australian children suffer a stroke; one in 20 die and more than half of survivors will experience long-term impairments.
Tommy has been delivering talks to school and community groups throughout his ride.
For more on Tommy's journey and how you can support his fundraising for Stroke Foundation visit here.
Image: Survivor of stroke Tommy Quick is riding to the four furthest points of Australia on a recumbent trike. He has now completed one third of the ride.
Learn and share the F.A.S.T. signs of stroke. Think F.A.S.T and ask these questions:
• Face – Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?
• Arms – Can they lift both arms?
• Speech – Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?
• Time – Time is critical. If you see any of these signs, call triple zero (000) straight away.
