Andrew Kerec became a fierce advocate for people with disabilities after his father became a quadriplegic seven years ago.
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Mr Kerec left his parents home in Canberra almost two months ago to complete a solo bicycle ride all the way to Humpty Doo.
He will be riding through Katherine on May 10.
“In early 2010 my great mate, business partner and dad, Lud Kerec, went for a light ride on a Sunday afternoon as part of his final 'wind down' preparation for the Port Macquarie Ironman event he was going to undertake with my little brother Malcolm on the following weekend,” Mr Kerec said.
“He was hit by another cyclist who was on the wrong side of the cycle path around a corner and they both came off their bikes.
“There were no apparent physical injuries to either of them apart from a few scratches,” he said.
“The other cyclist got up. Dad didn't.”
“His helmet strap had 'garroted' his neck and caused a dislocation of his spine around the C5/C6 vertebrae level.
“His spinal cord was intact but badly bruised and dad had instantly lost pretty much all function below his chest including his hands and chest muscles.
“While we obviously hoped for some recovery of function in the ensuing months - none came and Dad had become, and remains, a C5/C6 quadriplegic,” Mr Kerec said.
Mr Kerec said his father regained his health and recovered mentally, after spending several months at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Sydney .
“Living with quadriplegia has become my dad's new 'normal',” Mr Kerec said.
“Living with a quadriplegic has become my family's new 'normal'.
“We've gone boat fishing in Kakadu, beached ourselves on Pococks beach and shared a beer...or two. We've crossed the Canning Stock Route in a 4WD.
“Dad is now riding a hand cycle / quadriplegic specific bike and we are planning a boat fishing trip to the Kimberley.”
“It took a while, but even after experiencing such a terrible life changing accident to a loved one, you eventually begin to appreciate that perhaps everything does happen for a reason - and by doing so, you can start looking for ways to create positive outcomes, directions and results.”
Mr Kerec is riding to raise funds for spinal cord repair research and residential care for people with complex disabilities.
To find out more or to support Andrew’s incredible efforts visit his website.
http://www.thespinetinglingride.com.au
