Budgell Bikers riding to help others

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This article was published 19/03/2018 (3003 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

On Sun., June 3, Royalwood resident Dee Dee Budgell will lead the Budgell Bikers on a 65 kilometre bicycle ride as part of the Riverview Health Centre Foundation’s 20th annual Cycle on Life fundraiser.

Budgell’s heart will turn with every revolution of the pedals. She will be riding in memory of her late husband, Harry Budgell.

“Harry was a very active individual, playing sports throughout his life,” Budgell says.

“In 2006 at the age of 64, Harry suffered a massive stroke after a triple by-pass and heart valve replacement. We were told he would never walk or talk again.”

Harry went to  Riverview for rehab. Three months later, he walked out and was able to enjoy life at home.

In June, 2016, Harry was hospitalized after falling and breaking his hip. He never fully recovered and was confined to a wheelchair.  In September 2017, he suffered a fatal heart attack.

“When Harry was discharged from the hospital, we fought to get him back to Riverview,” Budgell shares. “His journey went full circle. The care he received inspired me to ride in his memory.”

The Budgell Bikers aim to raise $10,000 for the purchase of a rickshaw-style, wheelchair-accessible bike for Riverview patients and families like the Budgells.

The bike recalls the classic model used by Dickie Dee ice cream sellers. Imagine the ice chest removed and a wheelchair platform in its place. The wheelchair is secured to the bike, powered by a rider.

Brendan McAndrew of White Pine Fixies imports the bike for a personal care home in Steinbach. Budgell learned of it from a friend who was familiar with her passion for cycling.

“I could only take Harry so far in his wheelchair,” Budgell says.

“This bike will improve quality of life. Patients and families will have special outings together.”

The Budgell Bikers team includes St. Boniface city councillor Matt Allard and Southdale MLA Andrew Smith. The City of Winnipeg is providing a grant to support Budgell’s efforts.

“Harry and I were together for more than 30 years,” she says. “I know he would have done the same for me. I miss him every day and try to live life honouring him.”

To join the Budgell Bikers, or to make a donation in memory of Harry and support the wheelchair bike, visit www.rhcf.mb.ca, click on Events, select Cycle on Life, and search for the team name.

Tanya Misseghers is a community correspondent for Royalwood.