On Friday 11 April, we joined The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray, alongside our Charity Partner, Brain Injury Matters for the official unveiling of a newly adapted recumbent trike to their Pedal Power programme, thanks to funds raised by our Principal and Founder, Frank McKee. 

In joining Frank to unveil the new trike, The Lord Mayor extended his heartfelt gratitude to Frank McKee and his family for their contribution to the brain injury community of Belfast through this important addition to the Pedal Power Programme. 

Raising over £6,000 in 2024, the ‘Frank goes FAST for Brain Injury Matters’ project saw Frank take on the incredible challenge of cycling from CS Lewis Square, along the Connswater Greenway to Victoria Park, completing ten laps of the park and back to the square – the farthest he had ever cycled. This sponsored cycle marked ten years since Frank was told he would never walk or talk again after a life-changing brain injury acquired as the result of a massive stroke, aged just 47.  

Danielle Spackman, our Centre Manager and Frank’s daughter said,

“This incredible achievement could not have been possible without the help of friends and family who joined Frank on the day of his cycle, riding alongside him or cheering him on from the sidelines.

We are so grateful for every single person who contributed, donated or shared his story, helping to raise these crucial funds and awareness of the Pedal Power programme.” 

In receiving the new trike, Gerard Anderson, CEO of Brain Injury Matters commented “Watching Frank’s journey unfold has been nothing short of inspiring. His dedication and determination throughout his rehabilitation journey has been remarkable, and it’s been amazing to witness his progress, especially in his cycling. Frank’s journey isn’t just about personal triumph, it’s the story of resilience and about making a difference for others in their journey which I know Frank has always believed in, especially as the founder of Belfast Academy of Marketing.  Frank is not only transforming his own life but also making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.” 

Since its establishment in 2013, Brain Injury Matters has been supporting individuals affected by acquired brain injuries (ABI). Their Pedal Power initiative allows a small number of individuals, all with different needs and causes of ABI, to meet every Friday morning at CS Lewis Square for a cycle. The benefits of this programme go far beyond improved recovery and physical mobility. With reduced isolation and exclusion as well as improved integration, this group quickly becomes a very important part of the members’ lives. 

Due to funding and resource constraints, members’ unfortunately have limited time to cycle with high demand for a very limited number of recumbent trikes. The funds raised by Frank’s challenge have allowed BIM to purchase an additional recumbent trike, which will be crucial in continuing the programme and ensuring participants are able to reap the benefits of cycling. 

We are so pleased to continue working with BIM as our official charity partner for 2025 and we cannot wait to see the continued benefit and impact that ‘Frank goes FAST’ has on the Pedal Power Programme.  

For more information on BIM and how to get involved with their services, visit their website, braininjurymatters.org.uk.