More Than a Bicycle
“My cycle was my God. It was my only support.”
This is what a seventy-year-old patient that came to the OPD said. He had been battling with depression since last two years. He lived alone with his wife who had a long history of cardiovascular issues. The old couple managed all of their expenses, including medical bills and hospital stays with a monthly salary of 8000 rupees. His only source of transportation was his beloved cycle, which was stolen from outside the hospital when he came for a follow-up. My mom has always advocated for road safety for cyclists, and cycling as a sustainable means of transportation, and with the help of Trrayaam Foundation we have donated many cycles to people whose daily errands and life depended on it. With this, I had a thought of donating a cycle to this patient. I am grateful that I was able to help a patient outside of the OPD.
Beyond being just a mode of exercise or transportation, the humble bicycle symbolizes freedom, independence, and accessibility to essential services, especially for those who are elderly, those who are marginalized by socioeconomic constraints. With limited financial resources, they rely on bicycles to commute to work, access healthcare facilities, and perform daily errands. Unlike cars or public transportation, bicycles offer an affordable and sustainable means of travel, empowering individuals
For the elderly, who may struggle with mobility issues or chronic conditions, cycling provides a low-impact form of exercise that enhances joint flexibility and reduces the risk of age-related ailments such as arthritis and osteoporosis. Moreover, cycling stimulates the release of endorphins, the "feel-good" hormones, which can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, fostering mental well-being.
In the context of healthcare accessibility, the bicycle emerges as a critical tool for bridging the gap between underserved communities and medical services. In remote rural areas in India where healthcare facilities are scarce and public transportation is unreliable, bicycles serve as a lifeline for patients seeking timely medical attention.
-Dhruvi Joshi
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