Wheel to Heal pedals in aid of the people of Palestine facing genocide

‘By cycling, we are not just riding for fitness; we’re riding with the intent to bring hope to those who have lost everything.’ – Dr Elias Parker

By NONTOBEKO AISHA MKHWANAZI

When most people think of cycling, images of winding roads and fitness may come to mind. However, for Dr Elias Parker, the Chairperson of Wheel to Heal and his team, cycling is much more than a pastime. It is a means of bringing relief to those in desperate need.

On November 23, 2024, the Wheel to Heal team will participate in the Old Mutual Wealth Double Century (DC) race, a gruelling 200-kilometer challenge to be completed in under ten hours. But their goal extends far beyond simply crossing the finish line. This dedicated team is cycling as part of their Solidarity Ride initiative, in partnership with Africa Muslim Agency (AMA), to raise awareness and much-needed funds for victims of the ongoing genocide in Palestine and Lebanon.

Wheel to Heal, a registered non-profit organisation, has long been transforming cycling from a fitness activity into a powerful force for good. The organisation has raised awareness and funds for critical causes such as healthcare access, mental health awareness and community development. Over the years, Wheel to Heal has built a reputation as a professionally managed initiative with a clear purpose. It uses sports as a vehicle for positive change.

The Solidarity Ride initiative was launched on October 6, 2024, with a 150km ride in Cape Town, alongside other participants embarking on similar rides throughout the country. This was followed by an event at Al-Ikhlaas Academia Library in Cape Town on October 7, 2024, marking the tragic one-year anniversary of the Israeli occupation’s intensified genocide against Palestinians.

According to the Middle East Monitor, this escalation has claimed the lives of over 41 802 Palestinians, including more than 16 700 children, leaving thousands injured and destitute.

Participants in the Wheel to Heal Solidarity Ride, launched on October 6, 2024, complete a 150km journey through Cape Town to raise awareness and support for the initiative. (Photo NONTOBEKO AISHA MKHWANAZI)

Speaking at the launch, Dr Parker stressed the importance of solidarity in times of crisis.

‘This initiative is our response to the call for humanity. We cannot remain silent while innocent people, children, mothers and families are caught in the crossfire of greed and aggression. Our goal is to bring relief, raise awareness and inspire others to take action,’ said Dr Parker.

He also elaborated on the transformative power of cycling.

‘Cycling is one of the oldest modes of transport and an excellent form of exercise. But with Wheel to Heal, we’ve added a third dimension to it, the ability to serve humanity. By cycling, we are not just riding for fitness; we’re riding with the intent to bring hope to those who have lost everything,’ noted Dr Parker.

The Solidarity Ride’s impact, however, extends far beyond the cycling community. Dr Parker called on all other sporting and social clubs to join the cause.

‘This doesn’t have to stop with cyclists. We encourage runners, golfers, fishing enthusiasts, and many other sporting and social clubs to create their own initiatives and raise funds for this noble cause. Fundraising for this initiative will continue until December 1, 2024,’ urged Dr Parker.

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Help Wheel to Heal and Masjid Love raise funds for Gaza and Lebanon. #freepalestine🇵🇸❤️ #freepalestine #lebanon @Africa Muslims Agency

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Echoing Dr Parker’s sentiments, AMA’s Regional Director, Hussain Choonara, emphasised the urgency of collective action.

‘As a society, we cannot hear about these atrocities, see the devastating images, and simply do nothing,’ Choonara stated firmly.

He shared a memorable moment from his recent visit to a refugee shelter in Beirut.

‘I have met families from Gaza in Lebanon, who had lost everything within minutes; their homes, loved ones and any sense of normalcy. Yet, amidst their despair, there was resilience. Among them were two children who, despite their own trauma, were caring for a baby bird they had saved from their destroyed home. Their compassion, even in the face of unimaginable loss, reminds us of our duty to respond collectively with a helping hand in the darkest times,’

AMA has been providing clean water and medical care to thousands living in sub-human conditions.

‘We have mobile medical clinics running in Gaza and Lebanon to treat the injured and prevent the spread of disease. While we live in comfort, with access to clean water and warm homes, those in Palestine live in constant fear and unimaginable hardship,’ Choonara added.

Shaikh Sa’dullah Khan, who expressed his support for the Solidarity Ride initiative during the launch, commended the spirit of unity and selflessness that drives this initiative.

‘This is more than just a ride, it’s a bond of brotherhood. As Prophet Muhammad (SAW) taught, the best among us are those who bring the most benefit to humanity. This initiative is a true reflection of that noble teaching,’ said Shaikh Sa’dullah.

He also reflected on the importance of continuously raising awareness of the genocide against Palestinian people.

‘While there are those in society who choose to be ignorant of the reality of the atrocities faced by our brothers and sisters in Gaza and Lebanon, this Solidarity Ride serves to open eyes and hearts. It reminds us of our responsibility as global citizens to stand against injustice,’ said Shaikh Khan.

Sadiq Mohamed, captain of one of the Wheel to Heal teams, expressed pride in his cyclists.

‘Our teams have been training rigorously, riding 120 km daily in preparation for the DC. Cycling is the tool, but the real mission is raising funds to support the people of Gaza. With two teams of 12 riders each, we aim to finish the race together and make a tangible difference,’ noted Mohamed.

The team is determined to finish the race as a united front, with each rider earning two medals, a symbol of both physical and moral triumph.

Mohamed further urged the public to support this initiative.