How cycling changed my life...
For Pippa Kent, 30, climbing every hill is a life-affirming achievement as she gears up for a monumental personal journey…
WHAT’S GOT YOU ON THE BIKE?
Two and a half years ago I underwent a life-saving, double-lung transplant at Papworth Hospital in Cambridgeshire. Before the transplant, due to cystic fibrosis, I could no longer walk across a room without oxygen and without this operation there is no doubt I wouldn’t be here today. I want to give something back.
WHERE ARE YOU PLANNING TO RIDE?
On my third ‘lungaversary’, in April 2020, I’m going to cycle from Papworth Hospital to the Brompton Hospital – a distance of around 100km. It may not seem like a huge amount for many but considering my previous health it will be a mammoth mission.
HOW ARE YOU PREPARING FOR THE RIDE?
I’ve been generously lent a Wolfson 105 (by Townsend Light Blue Cycles, Cambridge). I feel spoilt to have such a nice bike considering my level of skill. I live and work in London and the bulk of my training to date has been at weekends, or when I have time off back at my parents in Cambridge.
WHO ARE YOU RIDING WITH?
The first bit of training was all about getting used to being on a bike and riding on a road. These rides have been with my dad, sister, fiancé and on my own to build my confidence. I’m also inviting people to join me for all or part of the journey – with both friends and strangers wanting to support the cause.
WHAT ARE YOUR CYCLING ACHIEVEMENTS TO DATE?
Less than three years ago I couldn’t walk across a room without oxygen let alone ride a bike for 20 miles, I’m not sure that feeling of disbelief at the top of every incline will ever go.
AND HOW DO YOU FEEL CYCLING HAS IMPROVED YOUR HEALTH?
After my double-lung transplant I wanted to get as fit as I could – to make the most of my second chance. This cycling challenge is just one of the ways I am trying to do this and it’s a huge marker of just how far I have come.
Support Pippa’s ride justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/lungaversaryride
GET IN TOUCH...
Has cycling changed your life? Email us at cyclingplus@immediate.co.uk
BEFORE THE TRANSPLANT, DUE TO CYSTIC FIBROSIS, I COULD NO LONGER WALK ACROSS A ROOM