Community
13 September, 2024
Survivor enters cardiac ride
AMATEUR beekeeper and father of two Don Anderson saw his life turned upside down after a heart attack four years ago. Now he’s gearing up for his third QSuper Cardiac Challenge in support of cardiac patients across FNQ.
Everything is set for Mr Anderson, 69, from Edge Hill and another 194 riders who’ll be taking on the Cardiac Challenge – 330km from Cairns to Cooktown over three days – to fundraise for cardiac outreach through the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation for heart patients in the most remote areas of the region.
The ride begins tomorrow (September 14) and ends on Monday.
Mr Anderson, who has fundraised over $1000 selling the proceeds of his hobby, anything from honey to wax and lip balm, said his journey started four years ago.
“I was working with my bees and I felt really crook, I went home and my wife thought something had to be wrong and called the ambulance,” he said.
“They took me into where they do the cardiac procedures and I actually had a heart attack on the table
“My life was saved and when I was in cardiac rehab I was offered to do some bike riding. As a consequence I learned how to ride a bike and this year will be my third Cardiac Challenge.
“I’ve discovered a new network of friends. I think my health is in a pretty good place and it feels great to help make a difference to other people through my participation and fundraising.”
Support Mr Anderson’s fundraising at https://bit.ly/3Tppd8q
