Bikers riding out in support of Norma

A CHARITABLE group of bikers will turn out in force across Warwickshire next week in honour of a fellow bike enthusiast with terminal cancer.

Norma Bowers was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma in 2012 and has since had multiple treatments including a stem cell harvest and a transplant.

But despite receiving all medical help available, Norma was recently told she had just months left to live.

Determined not to let the news dampen her spirits, Norma requested her biker friends from Shakespeare Bikers, Coventry Bike Meets and Buds with Bikes to escort her coffin at her funeral.

But fellow bikers had a another idea after being approached by Norma’s husband Lee – to give Norma a memorable final ride while also raising vital funds for the Myeloma Trust, which has supported Norma throughout her battle with the disease.

Starting at The Millpool in Coventry, the bikers will ride along the Fosse Way en route to the Tramway Pub in Stratford at midday on Sunday December 4.

The event has raised more than £1,000 for the Myeloma Trust before a wheel has even turned, and event organiser Carole Davis is hoping with the support they can collect over £2,000.

Speaking to The Observer, Carole said: “We was first approached by Lee and he mentioned Norma was planning her funeral and asked if we could escort her during the procession.

“It was heartbreaking news to hear but obviously we were all keen to help make Norma’s day special – but then something clicked.

“We realised we could make her parade happen before her own eyes and that’s where the idea for this charity ride came from.”

All monies raised from the ride will be donated to the charity to help with their vital work to support patients and their families with everything a myeloma diagnosis brings.

This includes supporting the charity’s funding into world-leading genetics research and delivering unique resources and tailored information for doctors, nurses and other clinicians to ensure patients receive the best treatment and care.

Norma herself will be taking part in the ride as she makes the 20 mile journey from Coventry to Stratford on her own trike.

Carole added: “When Norma agreed to take part in the ride we were all delighted.

“We want Norma to remember this ride forever as it will be the last one of her life.”

Around 150 bikers are set to ride out for Norma.

source:https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/news/bikers-riding-out-in-support-of-norma/