Former patient cycles 210 miles for Wales Air Ambulance
A former Wales Air Ambulance patient has completed a 210-mile cycle challenge just six months after suffering a cardiac emergency.
Brian Hughes, 64, from Conwy, took on the ride from Cardiff to Caernarfon in aid of the service that helped save his life in March.
He said: “It felt fantastic to be part of such an incredible event in aid of a Charity that was there for me when I needed it most.”
Brian collapsed while out on a 100-mile ride earlier this year. The Welsh Ambulance Service and Wales Air Ambulance attended, with clinicians giving him additional cardiac medication before flying him to Ysbyty Glan Clwyd for treatment. After surgery and cardiac rehabilitation, he set himself the goal of fundraising for the charity.
He initially signed up for the Wales Air Ambulance’s 100km Cycle Challenge with rugby legend Shane Williams, but decided to extend his ride. Along with five friends, he continued on from Dafen to the airbase at Caernarfon, completing 210 miles in just over 13 hours of riding time.
Brian said: “It feels fantastic to have been able to set myself this massive challenge and complete it. When I look back to what happened to me, I realise how fortunate I am that I have been able to not only get on with my life, but to get back on my bike, which I love. That’s all down to Wales Air Ambulance.”
The ride raised nearly £2,000 through Brian’s fundraising page and a further £1,000 through sponsorship of Shane Williams’ cycle jersey.
Gail Windley, Events & Partnerships Fundraiser, said: “Brian is one of a kind! To take on not only the 100km cycle challenge, but to do a further 150 miles is extraordinary.
“It has been so wonderful for our team to be able to cheer both him and his team on, doing what he loves best, just six months after suffering a cardiac emergency.
“He is now part of the legacy of our service, and a wonderful champion of what we do. We are grateful for Brian, his team, and his sponsors Thornley Leisure and Crime Prevention Service support. Without the help of our fundraisers, we would not be able to do what we do.
“Every pound raised, truly makes a lifesaving difference.”
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