Ride to benefit diabetes awareness
• Pictured preparing for the ride on December 14th are (left): Alex Stevens, Kieren Mullins, Bryton Mullins, Denham Hall and Jonty Mullins
Twenty five year old Alex Stevens was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes 18 years ago, and on December 14th he will be riding his bike on a fundraising trip from Scottsdale to Launceston via the Sideling, to raise awareness about diabetes.
Diabetes is the fastest growing chronic condition in Australia; increasing at a faster rate than other chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
All types of diabetes are increasing in prevalence.
For Alex, the idea for the ride originated from a bet he made with cousin Bryton Mullins.
"Bryton said that Steel Prince would win the Melbourne Cup, and I replied that if it did I would ride to Launceston," Alex said.
"As it happened the horse didn't win but I decided I would attempt the ride anyway, and my dad and a few others (including Bryton) agreed to join me. So there was no going back."
Alex deals with his condition on a daily basis. He injects himself with insulin four times a day, monitors his blood glucose levels, follows dietary requirements, and avoids fast food.
"Having Type 1 diabetes is mildly inconvenient but there are plenty of people worse off than me," Alex said.
"I work full time and can still indulge in recreational pursuits including footy, cricket, golf and fishing."
"We set ourselves a target of raising $1000 and have almost reached that already, and my family haven't donated yet!" he added.
Alex's dad Neville, Michael Wadley, Bryton Mullins and Denham Hall have already signed on to join the peleton, and more of his footy team mates from the Scottsdale club are expected to enlist.
"But we welcome anyone who wants to join us on the ride. It's a worthwhile cause and should be a fun day," Alex said.
A bus with a support crew on board will accompany the riders and ferry them back home.
The ride will take place on Saturday December 14th leaving the Lords Hotel car park at 8am, and hopefully arriving at the All Year Round hotel in Launceston four hours later.
"I'm hoping it only takes us four hours although Bryton reckons he may have to call into the LGH for some resuscitation before we finish," Alex said.
Collection tins are the Cottage Bakery, Good Sports, Teazed Hairdressing, Looking Great, IGA Scottsdale, Lords Hotel, Scottsdale RSL Club, Crankitcafe at Derby, Lost Farm, Scottsdale Football Club and the All Year Round hotel in Launceston.