Afraa Kori
Cancer survivor Ernest Vladica, from Yarraville, is set to participate in the Great Vic Bike Ride from November 23 to December 1.
Mr Vladica experienced four bouts of cancer, including intensive chemotherapy, radiotherapy and stem cell transplant.
Pedalling through pain, treatment and recovery, is a testament to his resilience.
“At Peter Mac they had an exercise bike and said exercise would help me with my rate of recovery. My bone marrow transplant was successful in record time,” Mr Vladica said,
“Physical fitness was key to coping with the cancer treatment and rate of recovery post treatment. Keeping fit is also important in coping with potential re-emergence and mental health and resilience.”
The Great Vic Bike Ride has been a great motivator for Mr Vladica to rebuild and get fit again.
“It does not need a lot of pre-training and I have made a great recovery from my cancer,” he said.
“After encouragement by a cycling enthusiast friend to ride the 210km Round the Bay in a Day in 2003, I decided to try the 600 km in nine days Great Vic bike ride with my almost 11-year-old son and other friends. We enjoyed the challenge and experience and decided to do it again.”
Additionally, he has ridden at least eight Great Vic Bike Rides and completed four Around The Bay rides.
The most challenging part is pedalling up hills as he has lost some lung function due to chemo.
“But slowly and patiently it does not. No shame in having short rest stops and soaking up the surroundings. Someday I may switch to an e-bike,” he said.
Mr Vladica realised it’s more rewarding and inspiring, sharing the Great Vic Bike Ride with family.
“Most of the Great Vic Bike Rides I have done have been with some or all of our children. Our son was 11 and our middle daughter was nine for their first independent Great Vic rides.
“Coming ride will be with my wife, youngest daughter, some friends and our neighbour with their children on their first Great Vic.”
The Great Vic Bike Ride is also a tradition for thousands of riders from all walks of life, varying ages, cycling abilities, shapes and sizes.
Riders will embark on a thrilling nine- day and 501 kilometres journey, through Wodonga to Healesville.
“I enjoy the scenic routes, camping, exercise and the sense of achievement at the finish plus interacting with the community of thousands of riders from diverse places in Victoria, interstate and internationally,” Mr Vladica said.
“There have been many memorable moments: most to do with inclement weather which has not been often: heat, heavy rain, soaked campgrounds. That is when the riders learn to be resourceful, knowing it is a passing thing and focus on enjoying the nightly entertainment.”
“Riding with family does not require that we ride together at all times. We can ride at our own pace and catch up during rest stops. It is also important for the children to gain the confidence to ride at their own pace.”
