Key Highlights
- Nick Ashdown, a 69-year-old grandfather from East Yorkshire, suffered paralysis after an accident during his son’s stag weekend in February 2023.
- A spinal injury at the C3, C4, and C5 vertebrae left him unable to move from the neck down, but he made significant progress with physiotherapy rehabilitation.
- Despite initial setbacks, Nick was able to regain some mobility by October 2023 and is now using a tricycle to continue his passion for cycling.
Nick Ashdown’s Scary Encounter
In the early hours of February 19, 2023, during a stag weekend celebration in Yorkshire, Nick Ashdown, a retired business analyst and 69-year-old grandfather, experienced an incident that would change his life forever. While getting up to use the bathroom, he suddenly collapsed, rendering him completely paralysed from the neck down.
Upon regaining consciousness, Nick’s wife Cheryl was by his side, her tears falling as she watched helplessly. The severity of his condition did not go unnoticed; paramedics and doctors at Hull Royal Infirmary took immediate action to ensure he received prompt treatment.
Rehabilitation Journey
Nick spent approximately two months in hospital before being transferred to Pinderfields Hospital, where the focus shifted towards intensive physiotherapy. The first few weeks involved regaining basic mobility and rebuilding core strength.
“I could raise my hand a little bit, and I could move one finger. That’s all I could do,”
recalled Nick, describing the moment his wife helped him regain minimal movement during his stay at Pinderfields Hospital in April 2023.
The physiotherapy regimen included two hours of daily sessions, complemented by occupational therapy. By October 2023, Nick had made significant progress and was able to walk “not brilliantly, but not too bad.”
Adapting to New Mobility
Nick’s determination to regain his independence led him to explore alternative means of mobility. In March 2025, he discovered Jorvik Tricycles in York, an adult tricycle manufacturer that provides a more accessible option for those with reduced core strength.
“The independence is great,”
stated Nick, highlighting the benefits of the tricycle. He and his wife Cheryl have completed 25-mile rides on their electric tricycle, which has helped to rebuild Nick’s hip strength and stability.
Future Goals and Hope for Cycling
Nick Ashdown remains optimistic about regaining full mobility, with cycling serving as a primary goal. His physiotherapy continues, and he hopes to attempt riding his bicycle again soon. “The goal last year was that I wanted to be able to get down on to the floor so I could play with my grandchildren,”
he said, expressing his joy at achieving this milestone.
“It’s on the horizon.” Nick is committed to continuing his rehabilitation and using cycling as a means of maintaining his health and independence.
To learn more about Jorvik Tricycles, visit their website.
