The event, which is being conducted in the Southern Highlands for the first time in 2008, will pay tribute to local cyclists who have been injured or killed on the road, including 15-year-old Ben Mikic who died in an accident at Mittagong in 2007 and Leigh Williamson who was killed in 2003.

The event will be especially close to the heart of local woman Janine Shepherd, who will officially launch the local leg of the world-wide event intended to promote greater awareness of road safety for cyclists, motorist and pedestrians.

Ms Shepherd was just 24-years-old and a member of the Australian Cross Country Ski Team when a terrible road accident changed her life forever in 1986.

She was taking part in a training bike ride in the Blue Mountains when she was struck down by a passing truck.

Her injuries were so severe that she lost five litres of blood, suffered severe head injuries, was paralysed by severe spinal injuries and multiple fractures throughout her body, and she teetered on the brink of death for more than 10 days.

Ms Shepherd said that while her parents, who kept a bedside vigil, were offered little hope by doctors who warned them “to prepare for the worst”.

“I have no memory of the accident but I recall a point where I passed over for a short period,’’ she said.

“I can remember there being a presence and I remember thinking the pain was so bad that I wanted to go [die], but for some reason I couldn’t let go [of my life].

“I think the will of my father, who sat constantly holding my hand, kept me here.’’

Ms Shepherd said the true realisation of her injuries didn’t register until after she left the hospital in a wheelchair more than six months later.

“Even when I was strapped to a bed in hospital I was convinced that I would continue life as it had always been."

For the full story see the Southern Highland News, Wednesday, May 21