−−− BY LINZI DAVIES −−−
Leeds Lions have helped a young boy ‘get on his bike’ with a charitable donation of £3000.
Joe Dale is a 14yr old boy with Down Syndrome who wanted to keep cycling with his active family but was finding it increasingly difficult to stay upright on the tandem which he rode with his Dad. Joe has very low muscle tone which causes him to tire easily and the family were growing concerned that they wouldn’t be able to continue their rides for much longer.
On one outing, they stopped at Stump Cross Café to have a much-deserved rest – and Joe’s favourite – a slice of cake. They were talking about the problem and the waitress serving them came back with a £5 note saying that if they were going to start fundraising for the special bike Joe needed this would be the start. Shannon, Joe’s Mum said, “I was overwhelmed by the kind gesture. Unfortunately, the bike Joe needed cost several thousand pounds and we didn’t know where to start!” Spurred on by such kindness, they began fundraising and managed to raise almost £2,000 themselves. Leeds Lions Club gave them a further £3,000, which enabled the Dales to purchase the new recumbent tandem.
■ Joe and his Dad on tandem
Shannon added “We are incredibly grateful to the Leeds Lions for their generous donation. We now plan to fundraise on our next coast to coast trip for the group so that they can help someone else.”
Caroline Fields, President of Leeds Lions said “When Joe came along to meet us and collect the cheque he mentioned he liked singing. Two minutes later he was entertaining everyone with the title song of The Greatest Showman! Before leaving, he gave us all a mighty hug. We were privileged to meet such a wonderfully inspiring family, especially Joe, and it is incredibly rewarding to be able to help.
“We are always looking for new members at Leeds Lions so, if you too would like to help us fundraise and, in turn, help local people, please get in touch.”
For more information on the Leeds Lions, contact Caroline at;
0113 2886393 cfields237@btinternet.com
