Putting pedal to the metal - 'BRAIN INJURY WON'T STOP ME'

After two horrific smashes, the gutsy cyclist perked herself up and kept going

- Ruth Jillings

Miriam Ellis is hoping it's third time lucky on her bike. After suffering two traumatic brain injuries while cycling, the Waikato mother had no idea what life would hold for her, but she has rediscovered her purpose and is back biking.

This time, it's at a much slower pace and involves guiding a three-wheeled 300kg set-up complete with a full-sized fancy coffee machine as she cycles around, bringing caffeine and happiness to Cambridge locals.

The resilient 45-year-old reflects, "The best thing about my business is the people. I have always been a bit introverted and uncomfortable around people, but this business has opened up the world to me. I love giving people something joyful in their day when I make the perfect cup of coffee and I can see they appreciate it."

Sharing her story with the Weekly, Miriam explains that cycling has always been a large part of her adult life from competing in Ironman races and the Xterra World Champs to four years living in Australia with no car and biking 20km with her son to get groceries.

However, her love of cycling has also been the cause of not one but two traumatic brain injuries.

"The first occurred in 2007 when I was training on my triathlon bike. I had just been selected as part of the elite New Zealand long-distance triathlon team."