Business in Bracknell - Blind Father Uses Pedal Power to Raise Funds

A 67-year-old father from Calcot who is both blind and partially deaf is set to boost the coffers of the St John Ambulance Theale Headquarters Appeal with a sponsored marathon bike ride.

Mr Anthony Gerald Hunt, or “Gerry” to his friends, has set himself the challenge of cycling 26.4 miles on a stationary training bike at Sainsbury’s supermarket, Calcot on Saturday 5th August.

Gerry’s daughter Wendy, 23, is a member of St John Ambulance Theale Division and suggested her father could help raise money for their new headquarters as the old building was destroyed in an arson attack.

Gerry explained: “My daughter and her boyfriend are always giving up their free time to do first aid duties at various events around Reading. The division’s current meeting place at the church hall is just too small for their needs. I want to support my daughter, the division and achieve something for myself.”

Gerry was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 1983 but didn't take his medication regularly as he considered himself fit and didn't think diabetes would affect him. Unfortunately when his condition worsened it was too late to reverse the damage.

In 2004 Gerry’s sight deteriorated along with his hearing in one ear and he lost sensation in his legs and feet. Unable to come to terms with his condition, he suffered from severe depression and he tried to take his own life. Following visits to Prospect Park Hospital he was advised to take up regular exercise. He joined a health club in June 2005 and worked out under the supervision of a personal trainer – Phil Chalmers.
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Gerry wants to put his improved fitness level to the test and provide new impetus to the St John Ambulance Theale Headquarters Appeal. He also wants to raise awareness of the seriousness of diabetes.

“I will be knocking on every door in Theale asking for support,” he explained. So far I have had a terrific response – only one company has turned me away. I can be quite persuasive,” he laughed.

The new headquarters will be used as a training centre to provide community courses such as ‘Lifesaver Baby & Child’ and ‘Fire Marshal’ and as a meeting place available for hire to community groups like Theale Division.

A plot of land has been donated by Sir William Benyon of Englefield Estate on the corner of Deadman’s Lane. Planning permission has been granted by West Berkshire Council and the architects’ plans have been approved. The building is estimated to cost around £250,000 to build. Theale Division has pledged to raise £80,000 and County Headquarters will contribute the difference. Theale Division has so far raised just under £50,000.

Theale Division President Mr John F. Brown said: “We are very grateful to Gerry – he is a remarkable man and an inspiration to us all. We are so close to having our new headquarters in Theale and Gerry’s support and enthusiasm has definitely brought fresh momentum to the appeal.”

www.justgiving.com/gerryhunt