State-of-the-art bike to improve youngster's life

A nine-year-old Shipston girl who suffers from two genetic conditions has been given a helping hand to manage her illnesses with a brand new £2,000 exercise bike.

Francesca McEwan suffers from cystic fibrosis and hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy, both of which are improved through regular exercise.

Francesca’s new Varibike bike, which has been funded by the medical charity WPH Charitable Trust, allows her to look after her chest and keep her airways open.

The bike also supports healthy muscle growth and helps keep Francesca fit.

The Varibike lets Francesca select from a choice of tracks and challenge herself and her friends to complete the circuits in record times.

This aspect helps Francesca feel less isolated from her friends and peers.

Francesca’s mum Anne said: “It has been used every day since it was installed and Francesca is really enjoying it, especially when she feels like she is peddling around various tracks which she can pick on the laptop.”

WPH Charitable Trust was established in 1994 and exists to provide funding for individuals, groups and organisations to help prevent, relieve and cure sickness in Coventry and Warwickshire.

For more information about the WPH Charitable Trust visit www.warwickshirehealthcharity.org.uk