Dai Mathias – Head for Change Community Hero

I am an ex rugby player who is now a keen cyclist and sports fan. I met Alix on a charity cycle ride from North to South Wales back in 2016. Like everyone else, I was shocked to hear of his diagnosis and also to hear of how many others were affected.

Having done many charity cycle rides, I told Alix that I was going to cycle from Cardiff to Edinburgh to raise money for Head for Change. To my surprise, Alix said that he wanted to join the ride!! We named the ride Head for Edinburgh, and it was the first of many cycling events that have raised much-needed funds, and moreover, raised awareness of the cause.

I am proud to have been a small part of the journey that has seen Head for Change pioneering positive change to prioritise brain health in sport. Alix and Mel’s perseverance in setting up education and awareness at the grassroots level is inspirational. They are also active in providing care and support to those living with neurodegenerative diseases. I am pleased to help and support in any way I can!