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JIM GETS OUT AND ABOUT THANKS TO THE SUNSHINE FUND

10 October 2008

New trike and ready to roll

KEEN cyclist Jim Stronach and his family love nothing more than jumping on their bikes and heading off to the coast and countryside. But teenager Jim , who suffers from autism, dyspraxia, hydrocephalus, asthma and learning disabilities, had never had a bike of his own – until now.
Mum Jane applied to the Chronicle’s Sunshine Fund for a recumbent trike, and now thrilled Jim , 18, can take to the saddle as often as he wants.
Proud Jane, 51, of Whitley Bay, who is Jim ’s sole carer, said: “He absolutely loves it. I thinks it’s the feeling of being able to move fast because he’s never really been able to do that.
“It’s given him independence, and he’s already lost weight because he’s getting a lot more exercise.
“In the past, he’s only been able to use a special trike at a cycling group, which was usually one hour a week during school time. Obviously, that was far from ideal.
“He really got into cycling in January and we borrowed a trike to do the Coast-to-Coast bike ride as a family. He’s loved it since then.
“Now we have this trike, Jim ’s confidence has massively increased, and he’s learning to become more aware of others, which is beneficial for him.”
Jane hopes that when Jim becomes more aware of the roads, he’ll be able to use his trike unaccompanied. For the time being, they take every opportunity to hit the road.
“At the moment, he comes out with me and his sister Rosie,” said Jane. “But I hope he can get out on his own soon.”
Sunshine Fund manager Jo Harris said: “The grant will give Jim the chance to be active and independent.
“This not only greatly benefits Jim , but also his family and friends. We are delighted to have been able to help Jim . We were pleased when we found we could help him.”
To raise money or apply for the charity, call Jo on (0191) 201 6289.
The annual Sunshine Fund’s Sunflower Ball is being held tonight at the Marriott Hotel, Gosforth.


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