Thetford Parishioner Resumes Cycle to Lourdes

A Thetford parishioner is proving that perseverance and faith can overcome even the most daunting setbacks.

Simon John, aged 79, is resuming his remarkable pilgrimage cycle ride to Lourdes — picking up the journey exactly where it was interrupted two years ago when he was struck by a bus in France.

Simon originally set out in 2023 to cycle the 1,371 kilometres between the Marian shrines of Walsingham and Lourdes, raising awareness and funds to help combat the scourge of modern slavery. His efforts were tragically cut short near Chartres on 4 July 2023, when he was knocked over by a bus while cycling alone.

At first, his injuries seemed minor, and he bravely continued for another 60 miles before his condition deteriorated. Simon was eventually admitted to hospital in Blois, where he was diagnosed with a severe pulmonary embolism (PE) caused by a blood clot that had formed unnoticed in his leg. Doctors advised him not to cycle or lift anything for the foreseeable future.

Reflecting at the time from his hospital bed, Simon said:

“This is a little frustrating, but at the same time I have had two lucky escapes because either the bus or the PE could’ve killed me.”

Undeterred by this near-fatal incident, Simon has now recovered sufficiently to complete the pilgrimage he began in faith. He will restart his ride from the hospital in Blois where he was treated, and cycle the remaining distance to Lourdes.

Simon is dedicating his fundraising efforts to Caritas Bakhita House — a safe refuge for women escaping modern slavery and human trafficking, operated by the Diocese of Westminster. Since opening in 2015, Bakhita House has provided sanctuary, therapy and practical support to over 170 women and 13 new-born babies, helping them to begin the long journey of recovery and to rediscover their dignity.

Simon shared:

“I believe that everyone deserves to live a life free from exploitation. My hope and prayer remain the same: that this small act can help raise awareness and inspire people to support the fight against modern slavery.”

The global crisis of human trafficking and forced labour is growing at an alarming rate, with an estimated 49.6 million people currently enslaved — one in every 150 people. Pope Francis called this exploitation “a scourge upon the body of Christ”.

Simon welcomes sponsorship and support for his ride. Donations can be made online to Caritas Bakhita House at:

https://caritaswestminster.org.uk/bakhita-house/donate/

Please pray for Simon’s safety as he resumes his pilgrimage, and for all those whose lives are blighted by the crime of modern slavery.

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