Paul’s long ride for brain injury

Join Paul's journey after brain injury as he takes on a 50km Yarra Trail ride and help give people living with brain injury a voice.

My injury led to emergency surgery, leaving me in a critical condition. Doctors delivered the devastating news to my family, suggesting I may never regain my independence. Lying in hospital, I was unable to move, talk, eat or open my eyes. I required tube feeding and could only consume pureed food. Every taste was a milestone.

On my road to recovery, with support around me, I was able to focus on small and achievable goals, starting with upper limb movement and progressing onto simple task like brushing my teeth. Gradually, my speech improved, my strength started to return, and I slowly began to rebuild my independence.

I attempted to ride an automatic training bike and was initially unable to complete even a single revolution. With persistence and support from those around me, I was able to achieve this milestone and now ride every day on a three-wheeled bike, gradually increasing my distance and endurance every day.

Why am I doing this?

Because every person living with a brain injury has a unique journey and story to tell. For many people living with brain injury, recovery is about more than physical healing, it is about building confidence, identity, independence and connection.

I can’t do this alone, support me on my ride and help change the lives of more people living with brain injury.