Son completes 900-mile cycle riden memory of his mother (From St Helens Star)
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Steve McBride completes 900-mile cycle ride in memory of his mother who died following a battle with Alzheimer’s
8:00am Saturday 13th October 2012 in News
WHEN Steve McBride put himself through the pain barrier of a supertough 10-day, 900-mile cycle ride, he drew inspiration from the memory of his mother who died from Alzheimer’s disease.
Steve, from Billinge, completed the Lands End to John O’Groats cycle ride in tribute to his mother who died in 2010 following a battle with Alzheimer’s.
Steve, 62, told the Star: “Mum was a unique, lovely and giving woman, who put the needs of others before herself throughout her entire life.
“It was so unjust and unfair that she should be so badly affected by such a devastating and unpleasant disease in the final years of her life.”
Retired police officer Steve has been supported with his fundraising efforts by his wife Brenda, who has backed him all the way. The ride comes as just one of his many events for the charity.
The Lands End to John O’Groats ride famously covers the length of the UK, with some stages challenging riders with varying terrain.
The dreadful weather had its effect on Steve who told of the kindness of strangers.
He said: “When I was on a stage in Scotland, the weather was absolutely horrendous. All my waterproof equipment and clothing had leaked through and I was soaking.
“I remember stopping to ask someone for a black bin bag so I could put it underneath my jersey and the man was so kind.
“He saw the Alzheimer’s Society logo on my top and took me into his house and helped dry all my equipment before I set out again.”
For the cycle epic, Steve wore a blue Alzheimer’s Society jersey which promoted the charity throughout his journey across Britain.
Steve added: “Although it was tough at some points of the cycle, it was a complete joy at the same time.
“I saw some beautiful sights across the country and the thought of helping such an amazing charity was fantastic.”
Cash is still being raised by Steve through his JustGiving page which will donate the money to the Alzheimer’s Society. If you would like to donate visit justgiving.co.uk/ Steve-McBride or visit alzheimers.org.uk to find out more about the disease and charity.
