He’s spent 12 days covering 100 kilometres a day on the back of a push bike but for Peter Hodgson the true hero of this epic ride is Tahlia Smith.
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The Maitland triathlete returned home on Friday afternoon after pedalling from Brisbane to East Maitland to raise money for Tahlia who is battling Lyme disease.
The aim was to collect $10,000 for Tahlia’s escalating medical bills but about $20,000 has been raised so far.
“The ride was great and there were days when things were a bit hard, but nothing in comparison to what Tahlia goes through,” Mr Hodgson, 39, of Metford, said.
It is believed Tahlia, 21, of Raworth, was infected with the tick-borne disease while travelling to promote her performing arts career during 2009-10. From here Tahlia became progressively worse and in 2013 suffered her first seizure.
Lyme disease treatment is not funded by the Australian government and some doctors believe the disease does not exist in Australia.
Tahlia is now hoping to travel to Germany for a $100,000 radical treatment regime.
“While raising this money is fantastic, the ride was also an opportunity to start a conversation about Lyme disease,” Mr Hodgson said. “No-one needs to go through this.”
A Lyme Awareness Evening (in support of Tahlia) will be held at Maitland City Bowling Club on Saturday, July 18. For details contact David Cliff on 040849036.