MORE than 50 bikers have helped a patient at St Giles Hospice enjoy a final ride.
Patrick Webber was diagnosed with terminal liver cancer three years ago.
A keen biker in his youth, the 75-year-old had longed to experience the freedom of the road once more.
A group of riders gathered to make his wish come true – and he was even joined by his grandsons on their bikes for the ride.
Julia Pike, Patrick’s daughter, said:
“This was my sons’ first and final ride with their grandpa, as well as my dad’s last ride, so it was incredibly emotional for all of us.
“My youngest son started revving his engine and then all the others joined in. You could feel the vibrations through your chest.
“It was incredible – dad was completely overwhelmed.”
The group travelled in convoy through the countryside before Patrick enjoyed photographs from the seat of a Harley Davidson motorbike.
Julia added:
“It was the biggest smile I’ve seen on him in years. This meant the world to him – and to us. It’s a memory we’ll always hold on to.”
There was no registration fee for the ride, but the biker community asked for donations on the day, helping raise over £250 to support St Giles Hospice.
Patrick has been receiving care from the Whittington-based charity for three years, receiving vital support with pain management and day-to-day needs from the dedicated community team.
Julia added:
“The team at St Giles have been absolutely brilliant. I can’t thank them enough for the support they have given dad and his wife.
“It’s allowed Dad to have a sense of normality and dignity despite the condition he’s living with. Nothing is ever too much trouble for them.”
Amy Bushell, clinical lead for community services at St Giles Hospice, said:
“Patrick is a patient I know well and he is such a lovely and kind gentleman.
“It was absolutely amazing to see Patrick out there doing something that means so much to him.
“We’re so grateful to Wheels for Wishes who helped make this possible. These moments are what hospice care is really about.”
The ride forms part of Patrick’s personal bucket list, which still includes a few musical dreams – including hopes of seeing Adele live in concert.
