Rediscovering Freedom: Mervyn’s Parkinson’s Journey
483 words
3 min read
Published Feb 2026
MMervyn has been living with Parkinson’s disease for six years, with the condition progressively affecting his movement, balance, and confidence. Over time, everyday activities such as swimming, walking, cooking, and simply getting out of the house became increasingly challenging.
Through our Pathways To Pedals inclusive cycling programme at Get Cycling CIC, Mervyn rediscovered the benefits of adapted cycling. The programme helped him rebuild confidence, improve wellbeing, and experience greater independence through safe, supported access to cycling.
Finding the right support
“Before today, I didn’t think cycling would be for me because I have very bad balance and coordination. It was very easy to get a loan of a tricycle. I had a look on the website, made an appointment, and came down to get a cycle. The staff were wonderful. We selected one, had a quick trial on one to see how it fitted. They dropped the tricycle off to me, and gave me a thorough explanation of what everything did.”
The combination of a choice of inclusive cycles and tailored support gave Mervyn the confidence to try cycling safely – something he thought was impossible.
Enjoying the benefits
“When I used the tricycle, I had this fantastic feeling of freedom. I was able to cycle, go faster and faster, and go places I wanted to go to. I didn’t need to be taken. I had freedom. Cycling has given me freedom and independence.”
Cycling improved Mervyn’s mobility and eased some of the physical discomfort caused by Parkinson’s:
“When I get onto the tricycle, I’ve got power. My muscles work and the pain I get from Parkinson’s eases. I feel much better. I actually recommend it for anybody with Parkinson’s. How wonderful. It opened a new world.“
Why Pathways To Pedals matters
Pathways To Pedals is an inclusive cycling programme from Get Cycling CIC that helps remove barriers to cycling for people living with long-term health conditions, disabilities, or reduced mobility. By offering access to adapted cycles, expert assessment, and tailored support, the programme enables people to become more active, build confidence, and regain independence through cycling.
For those working in health and social care, rehabilitation, or community support services, stories like Mervyn’s demonstrate the impact that inclusive cycling can have on wellbeing, mobility, and quality of life.
Watch this short film and share it to help spread awareness of inclusive cycling and how programmes like Pathways To Pedals can open up cycling to more people.
Get Cycling CIC is built on many years of real-world experience in matching people to the right inclusive cycles. Our team brings practical, specialist knowledge to every conversation, helping individuals and professionals navigate options with confidence and find solutions that genuinely work in day-to-day life.
To find out more or make a referral, call 01904 636812, email hello@getcycling.org.uk, or visit us at 22 Hospital Fields Road, Fulford, YO10 4DZ.