Those of you who know Michael will be aware that he is a key figure in the UK bicycle industry.  He has steered the ship at Orange Mountain Bikes on a daily basis, for over 10 years.  He has championed many causes, people and ideas; both inside and outside of the cycle trade.  To all who know him personally or professionally, even those who just know him by reputation, the news of his accident was - and still is, as raw and grievous as the moment it happened.

March 3rd, 2013 - probably just a normal day for the majority of us?  But unfortunately, this is when Michael's life changed  forever.  It started just the same as it may have done for yourselves; he was participating in his local Eden Valley Sportive, when he took a tumble from his bike.  Only he didn't bounce back, have a chuckle and look over his shoulder to see if anyone had seen him this time.  Immediately attended to by doctors at the scene, Michael was airlifted to hospital.

X-rays confirmed Michael had completely fractured the C3 vertebrae as well as subsequent spinal cord damage, making him Tetraplegic; paralysed from the neck down and fully dependent on a ventilator to breathe.

March 22nd, 2013 - the first milestone, in the next chapter of their life together; lifelong partner Linzi, became Mrs Bonney.  Although Michael will not regain the use of his arms and legs again, he has continued to beat the statistics and predictions of the doctors looking over him - gaining some control over his ability to breath without assistance AND he's back in work mode, providing consultancy services for a variety of projects in the bike industry and  beyond.

Through the Ride for Michael Fund YOU have made everything possible for Michael to live as much as a normal life as possible, from remodelling his home and garage, to giving him a custom made Renault Van to accommodate his wheelchair.  Unfortunately he will continue to need as much support as possible from all who are willing - please  visit Ride for Michael and help give him all he deserves