Pedal power


4 February 2019

Jo Wessell took part in the London to Brighton Bike Ride for the MS Trust in September last year. Here she reflects on “the most amazing experience”

I previously had been a runner and competed in a 10k and a half marathon. But I had two big relapses in the months after the half marathon, which resulted in optic neuritis and foot drop to the left foot. This caused big physical and mental difficulties. After being so active with my dog walking and running, I then had all this taken away from me.

But I was fortunate to meet Paralympic swimmer Stephanie Millward at the Bristol MS Centre and also an MS psychologist, and they both advised me to focus on what I could do rather than on what I couldn’t. I started to get some recovery in the foot drop and I then thought I would see how I could manage on a bike having loved cycling as a child.

I soon found that I ‘COULD’ still do it! This was my new found sport and I started to look at setting up challenges. I completed sportives and set up a cycle club in the village where I live. I then decided to sign up to the London to Brighton Bike ride along with members of the cycle club.

I soon found that I ‘COULD’ still do it! 

The ride was amazing. The support and facilities were excellent throughout the ride. Starting in the hectic area of Clapham Common to then head out into the beautiful roaming countryside. The ride was a challenge, with the greatest being cycling up Ditchling Beacon at the end. Some people walked up the big climb others cycled it. There was no pressure, just encouragement and support all the way.

The final part of the ride was the cycle down into Brighton, with cheering squads, relatives and friends supporting you all the way. There was a massive feeling of pride and emotion going over the finish line and we managed to raise £1,470 for the MS Trust, which made the feeling even better!

Join us for the 2019 London to Brighton bike ride!

Sign up now for just £55 and be a part of our team as an official charity partner. Minimum sponsorship is £150 per person and the event takes place on September 15.