Six days on the road for Rett Syndrome

When Olympic cyclist Brett Aitkin won gold at the 2000 Olympics it was a time of both joy and uncertainty. As Brett was celebrating his gold medal effort against the best cyclists in the world, his two-year-old daughter Ashlee was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome.

Brett is now using his cycling prowess to raise awareness of Rett Syndrome and to raise money to allow vital research into the disorder. He has formed a team of riders, including his father, Ashlee's Throat Specialist and a host of family and friends, who will set off from Adelaide on 14 May for Broken Hill, on a gruelling six day bike ride.

The team hopes to raise over $40,000 for research into Rett Syndrome. A large percentage of this money will be donated to The Children's Hospital at Westmead, who conduct an extensive genetic research program focussing on the causes, effects and cures of this mysterious disorder.

The six days these riders will spend on the road will be action-packed as they visit remote schools, attend official functions and, of course, ride hundreds of kilometres through a range of terrains and climates! A total of four auction nights will be held along the route and on the final night in Broken Hill an official reception will be held where Brett hopes to get Pro Hart to sign a bike for auction.

Rett Syndrome is a complex neurological disorder which is found almost exclusively in females and occurs roughly within one in every 10,000 girls born worldwide. The disorder is present at birth and usually becomes evident during the second year of life. Girls with Rett Syndrome often experience breathing irregularities, epileptic fits, muscle and joint problems, reduced mobility, scoliosis and growth retardation.

For further information about 'Six Days on the Road for Rett Syndrome Research' or to make a donation, please contact freecall 1800 177 111.

For all media enquiries, please contact:

Julie Stromborg
Public Relations Officer
Ph: (02) 9845 3580
Fax: (02) 9845 3567
Pager: (02) 9845 0000 and quote page no. 6920