Josh Goyne, 17, sets out from Fyshwick tomorrow on a 2,200 kilometre ride with the aim of raising money for stroke support and assistance.
Seven years ago, Josh’s grandfather, Barry Graham, had his first stroke. Two years ago, Barry’s fifth stroke paralysed him from the chest down.
‘I took time out of my holidays and schooling to fly to the Sunshine Coast to look after grandad’s farm,’ Josh said. ‘When money was slim, I caught a ride with a trucker, and when I couldn’t make it up there I organised for my mates nearby to look after his farm every day after school.’
Josh has since become a stroke ambassador, raising over $30,000 for charity by cycling on long rides.
When Barry died in August last year, Josh began working even harder to help stroke victims, including setting up Stroke Support & Awareness Australia Inc., a charity that aims to help stroke victims in a practical way.
“The funds will go to provide stroke ward’s with vital lifesaving equipment, help rehabilitate stroke victims with an emphasis on rehabilitation in their own home with the love of their family around them,” Josh said.
The ride that begins tomorrow will be Josh’s third stroke awareness ride and he has a fundraising goal of $30,000. He will cycle from Total Tools in Fyshwick to his late grandfather’s farm in Peachester on the Sunshine Coast.
To further help his cause of raising awareness of stroke, Josh aims to set a record during his charity’s inaugural ride for “longest distance ride in two weeks by an under 18-year old” for Guinness World Records.
The Tour de Stroke 2015 commences at noon, Saturday October 10 from Total Tools, 103 Gladstone Street, Fyshwick.
Connect with Josh on Facebook. To donate, text “Josh” to 0437 371 371.
Image from Josh’s Facebook page.
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