The mission of Spokes Fighting Strokes is to reach every stroke survivor and show them that recovery is possible! Through Adaptive Cycling clinics we help stroke survivors to get their life back, by regaining strength and ability, hope and freedom. The goal is to increase awareness about stroke and HHT (Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia), and to make Adaptive Cycling available to the stroke community.
This clinic is perfect for someone recovering from a stroke, HHT, brain injuries, those experiencing motor/neuron conditions like MS, and anyone looking to learn how to use trikes! Clinics are free, donations accepted.
More bike rides, classes, and info at Spokes Fighting Strokes.
This clinic is free, donations accepted at checkout.
About Dan the Bike Man from Spokes Fighting Strokes:
In 2005, at age 41, Dan suffered a stroke that paralyzed his right arm and leg and damaged the left side of his brain. A hospital doctor told him that he would never walk or talk again. Angry, Dan knew he had to give up or fight. His early life with his father, a railroad conductor who worked all hours and drank more than he parented, had left Dan determined to work hard and do better. Dan knew his sons needed a father, and he decided to shut down his woodworking business and concentrate on recovery.
It took eight weeks before he could hobble with a walker. For six months he visited job sites in a wheelchair, pointing to communicate as the company wrapped up projects. It took a year before he barely could talk, and three years before he could spell simple words. He now lives in Tempe, and his main source of income is rent from his woodworking building.
By 2008, Dan wanted more mobility than his wheelchair afforded. His first tricycles were too heavy but offered him the "freedom, plain and simple," that he craves. He bought a lightweight recumbent trike in 2009 and began riding with the "Bent Riders of Arizona" on weekly rides and weekend tours. He logs 500 to 700 miles a month and in 2012 rode more than 350 miles from Phoenix to San Diego in eight days.
Cycling, Dan says, has improved his health and more importantly, given him a purpose in life. He wants to raise awareness of HHT, the disease that killed his brother and mother and is present in Dan and his younger son. He also wants to raise awareness of stroke prevention and inspire other stroke survivors to fight back against the disease.
