Riding to independence

0:09

One day I decided to ride my bike to work. I didn't realise at the time but that one decision would have a major impact on a client I support. When I arrived at work, Adam was really interested in my bike and was asking heaps of questions about it. He told me he hadn't ridden a bike in seven years and really wanted to do it again.

0:31

I wanted to ride a bike and get fit and to be independent. There was a whole load of obstacles to overcome. He didn't own a bike - Adam had to relearn a lot of skills. He was lacking in confidence and Adam’s mum was very nervous. I was really concerned about the volume of the traffic around here, the water not far from here and just any accidents might happen, how he would cope with it.

0:59

Adam had to re-learn a few aspects of riding a bike - in regard to braking and how to use the pedals correctly. We then continued on to talk about road safety and what to do in emergencies. 

Shane knew how concerned I was about the bike rides - so, every time they rode Shane would send me videos of the bike rides to tell me how much Adam was improving. I was really nervous about falling off and figuring out how we get to work by bike.

1:25

When they first started, Shane was always the leader - showing Adam which way to go... and then over time they slowly changed places and Shane would stay way back, making sure that Adam was making all the decisions on which way they had to ride.

After about three months of training and practice, Adam said to me, I feel ready to ride solo. On the morning of my ride I checked my tyres, my brakes and my backpack...

2:08

[Music]

I have never ridden on my own before. I wanted to see if I could do it by myself...

2:19

[Music]

2:55

Riding to work was incredible. When I arrived, lots of people were there to welcome me.
They were cheering and clapping. After the ride I felt really proud. I rode to work independently!

3:18

[Music]

3:30

Yeah I’m going for the ride and by myself. I am alive and i soar...

3:37

[Music]

3:39

Still, I run towards the wind and let the challenge draw me in - 'cause I want more...

3:54

[Music]