Cancer charity ‘The Bike Network’ ask for bike shop support

For anyone in the UK who has received a diagnosis of cancer, The Bike Network are a charity supplying bicycles and equipment free of charge.

What started in March 2020 with cancer survivor Adam Froggatt offering a few bikes to local cancer patients, has grown into a national charity supplying bikes all the way from Lands’ End to the Shetlands.

The Bike Network wants the mind and body benefits of cycling to be accessible without barriers which often arise because of a cancer diagnosis.

How can the cycle industry help?

Many shops already ask customers, “would you like the old parts back?” when checking bikes in for service work. If asked, “would you like to donate your old parts to a charity supporting cancer patients?” shops would be seamlessly highlighting The Bike Network, and the work it does.

Great examples of this in action include recently receiving a complete Shimano Claris groupset, which enabled the building of a bike with components which costing no more than new brake pads and a chain.

The parts and kit supplied have been invaluable in getting bikes to those who need them whilst keeping costs low for the charity.

Supporters so far include Tredz, G!RO, Giant St Pauls, D&D Cycles & Clive Mitchell Cycles.

What is the impact of this help?

Over 270 bikes have been provided since September of 2020, when the first official bike was delivered. Around 100 more patients and survivors, looking to take on cycling to support them through treatment and rehabilitation, are currently on The Bike Network waiting list.

The benefits cycling can bring are highlighted by Adams own journey.

Knowing that losing weight, and improve fitness, would likely help towards a safer surgery and his recovery, he bought a second-hand road bike, and didn’t look back. Today, 4 years on from the consultant confirming there was no evidence of disease, Adam is keen to emphasise that cancer doesn’t stop there. Constant check-ups, blood tests and scans often result in constant anxiety. Cycling supports the long term journey, improving physical and mental health.

Adam can be contacted on 07852 468 451 or via info@thebikenetwork.org

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