Local rides for change, debunks taboos on prostate cancer

Meyersdal’s Michael Wade joined multitudes in tackling the Virgin Active 947 Ride Joburg Road 2022, hosted by the City of Johannesburg on November 20 at FNB Stadium.

As the lovely weather complimented the day, the avid mountain biker enthusiastically hit the streets of Joburg for a charitable cause, while also experiencing Joburg.

With support from friends and loved ones, through his cycling, Michael also intended on breaking down taboos around prostate cancer and supporting men with their experiences.

As the day proceeded, Michael was ready for the challenge as his training was done and his bike was ready to hit the streets. The Teddy Bear Foundation was also proudly ‘sitting’ on the handlebars.

Michael, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in November 2021, said this was his 11th 947 race but described it as ‘probably one of the most enjoyable.

Great experience

He said the support he received after his previous article on the Alberton Record was amazing.

“Many old school friends made contact after reading about my journey and the encouragement and support from the community were awesome. Also, quite a few people chatted about the difficulties and taboos surrounding talking about prostate cancer, especially for men,” explained Michael.

With the rest of the charity group, he said the Teddy Bear Foundation had at least 100 cyclists sporting their Teddy team this year.

He reiterated that it was an amazing experience and the cheers from the supporters along the route made it easy for him to climb the hills.

“Hopefully with the exposure from all the Teddy riders more people will get involved in this worthwhile charity. Although this was certainly not my fastest 947 ride, it was one of the most fun and memorable ones. Also, it challenged me in many ways,” Michael explained.

It is exactly a year after his diagnosis and he feels he has conquered the 97km race and the emotional and physical challenges of facing a cancer diagnosis.

His supportive wife, Glenda, said Michael would not have managed to overcome these challenges without the support of his family, friends and community.

“He would encourage everyone to get involved in any way they can to support the Teddy Bear Foundation because the children they support are our future. From personal experience, he has seen how the support in trying times impacts your life,” he said.

Michael is now looking forward to the next ride for the Teddy Bear Foundation in May 2023, the Trap de Val 100 miler.

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