Tenacious Tommy Takes on Tassie

A childhood survivor of stroke who recently completed the mammoth 9,889km challenge of riding to the four most extreme points of Australia’s mainland, is back for more- this time taking on the winding roads and picturesque hills of Tasmania. 
 
Starting on Friday, March 15, 31-year-old, Tommy Quick, will start the gruelling challenge of riding a recumbent trike to the state’s most eastern, western and southern points, to raise awareness of stroke and inclusion and raise money for Stroke Foundation. 
 
Tommy had a life-changing stroke when he was just 12 years old which impacted him physically and affected his communication, but he says it has not stopped him from achieving his goals.  
 
“I want young people to know that anything is possible and not to let anyone tell them otherwise. I am an example that living with a disability is not a barrier, and you can still dream big and smash your goals.”  

Tommy will ride a gruelling 1,100 kilometres from West Point to Gladstone to Cockle Creek, stopping at schools and talking to community groups along the way. 
 
“This isn’t just a ride; it’s a way of living. It’s hard to explain what it’s like to live with a disability unless you’ve walked in the shoes of someone living with a disability. There’s the physical side, sure, but there’s also the emotional, invisible and social toll. That’s why I'm sharing my story—to help others understand and to show that life doesn’t stop after a stroke,” Tommy said. 
 
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Dr Lisa Murphy, says she’s looking forward to watching Tommy conquer Tassie.     
 
“We are so proud of Tommy. He is as tenacious and as determined as a person gets. Year after year, he has shown great strength and courage by overcoming challenges and removing roadblocks to achieve his goals. Tasmania’s landscape is tough but it has certainly met its match in Tommy.” 
 
Every year, between 300-500 children will have a stroke in Australia and 50 per cent of childhood survivors of stroke will have long-term neurological impairment.  
 
Tommy hopes that, by sharing his story, he can raise awareness around childhood stroke. 
 
" Stroke doesn’t only impact older Australians, it happens to babies and children too so it’s important that I talk about my journey to help other children and their families who are navigating life after stroke.”