In fall 2006, I suffered a totally unexpected heart attack. It was a huge shock to myself, my family and my friends. After four weeks of therapy I slowly ‘came back to life’. Medical tests showed that I walked away with virtually no physical limitations. Those weeks in therapy gave me plenty of time to think about my new life situation and I came to the obvious conclusion that I had to correct some former habits — especially stop smoking, eat differently and get daily exercise.

My new daily workout included cycling, which I had always loved, and I envisioned crossing the USA on a bicycle! There were several reasons to challenge myself in this way. First of all, I was looking for motivation in my life. Having biked for years it was clear to me that I wanted to do a bigger trip on my mountain bike.

Twenty years ago, I travelled and lived for several months in the USA. During one of my first stays in California, I discovered the thrills of mountain biking in the Sausalito area, which is where the sport was born. I’ve been hooked ever since!

Another important aspect of my vision to cross the USA by bike was to show heart-attack patients, their relatives and also healthy people that there is a way to create a new and positive life after a life-threatening experience.

After months of daily bike training, I have prepared for and organized the whole trip. I have partners on board, completed my homepage, evaluated the equipment and planned the route. I’m so excited about this tour and I hope you will follow my adventure with enthusiasm! Together, we can help heart patients everywhere. 

Keep checking the site — I’ll keep you updated with all my news and photos!

EVERY JOURNEY STARTS WITH ONE SMALL STEP!