North WalesFreemasons

Andrew Paddison, Member of Welchpool Lodge No. 998, will be hand-cycling from Lands End to John o’ Groats (LEJOG) to raise money for three charities: Macmillan Cancer Support Prostate Cancer UK Bloodwise.

Andrew’s challenge is to cycle just under 1,000 miles on a hand-bike in just 13 days. As he prepares for the epic journey, Andrew said “Whilst I am not the first hand-cyclist to tackle LEJOG, my challenge is slightly different in that I am a Thalidomider.”

To quote Andrew:- “My bike has been adapted in that it has a Power Assist System. However, this doesn’t imply that by the flick of a switch it moves with no effort, quite the contrary. If needed, i.e. for inclines or cycling into a strong wind, it replicates the power I transfer via the crank and assists. As I have no elbows for leverage, I require such for windy days, hills, etc. However, the range is 20 miles if constantly in use. Hence I have to use it sparingly, if at all, whilst doing distant riding”.

In the 1950’s a drug called Thalidomide was developed to combat the effects of severe morning sickness of pregnancy. The drug resulted in babies being born with deformed limbs. It is 60 years since the first thalidomide baby was born in the UK.

Andrew continued, “I am not a victim but a product of Thalidomide. I’m proud to show that two short arms, no right leg and a curved spine, should not deter you from leading an active, healthy lifestyle.”

In anticipation of your support, Andrew is aiming to show that limitations should not deter you, “there are always people in a worse position than yourself, that’s why we can all help in our own way.”

Andrew will be supported by Team Paddison and #NorthWalesFreemasons offering encouragement and companionship over the 13 days.