Join us on this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast as we explore the remarkable journey of Amanda Harris, an adapted cyclist and dedicated fundraiser who has embraced life's challenges following a spinal cord injury. Living in South Wales with her husband and two teenage children, Amanda's story is one of resilience, determination, and breaking down barriers. Originally from Devon and a law graduate from Cardiff University, Amanda has spent over 30 years in Wales. Her life took a dramatic turn after a serious bike accident that resulted in a spinal cord injury. Despite the life-altering event, Amanda's spirit remained unbroken. She spent nine months in the hospital, relearning basic skills and adapting to her new reality. Amanda's love for cycling was rekindled when she was gifted a recumbent bike, allowing her to take on new challenges and raise funds for charity. Her journey includes the ambitious goal of completing the Wales Coast Path (WCP) using a trike, wheelchair, and occasionally walking with crutches. Amanda's determination and adaptability shine as she navigates accessibility issues and relies on friends and family to assist with sections that are not accessible. In this episode, Amanda shares her experiences, from her early years in Devon to her life in Wales, her passion for cycling, and the various challenges she has undertaken. We delve into her methods for staying positive, setting tiny goals, and focusing on what she can achieve. Amanda's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of embracing life's challenges with a positive attitude. Tune in to hear Amanda's inspiring journey and her advice for women facing their own challenges. Discover how she continues to push boundaries and inspire others with her remarkable story of overcoming adversity and loving life. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is AmandaLiving in South Wales with her husband and two teenage childrenOriginally growing up in DevonStudying Law at Cardiff University Living in Wales for over 30 yearsMeeting her husband at University Bringing her children up in Wales Still learning the Welsh Language Her early years and spending lots of time outside Not being particularly sporty or competitiveMaking walking plans for retirementGetting into cycling before her 40th birthday Signing up for a charity cycle ride Being in a bike accident which caused a spinal cord injury and multiple other injuries Not being able to feel her legs and knowing something serious had happenedSpending 9 months in hospital Having to learn everything againHow it changed her life What’s happened sinceDeciding to complete the Wales Coast Path (WCP) by trike, wheelchair and occasionally a few steps Being able to walk a few steps with crutchesWhy can’t I do this nowAccepting that there are some parts which are’t accessible Asking friends and family to walk that sections that aren’t accessible Accessibility on the Wales Coast PathResearch before taking on new sections Why everyone has different needs when it comes to access and accessibility The need for planning Needing to walk the path around work and needing support from other peopleCompleting approx 500 miles needing to do the North Wales SectionsRaising funds for charity Getting back into cycling and being gifted a recumbent bike Being involved in different cycling challengesWinning a competition with - Spinal Injuries Association Heading out to Portugal in May 2024 to ride 200 miles over 3 days!Having moments of doubtNot going into the dark placeFocusing on the positives and what she can do Giving things ago and saying yes to more things (such as doing this interview!)Wanting to take the tandem bike over to America to do a big ride with her husbandHow to connect with Amanda on line Final words of advice for women who are going through a challenging timeNot wanting to preach to people Try and stay positive Setting tiny, tiny goals in a notebook and how this helped during rehabFind out what works for you and focus on that Social Media Instagram: @amandah_trike Instagram: @amandascoastalchallenge
