Cover image via Douyin
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Killian Le Guyader is not your average tourist. The 24-year-old Frenchman recently completed an epic 18,000km bicycle ride from his home in Rennes, France, all the way to the Great Wall of China.
Cycling through 30 countries over nearly a year, his journey has gone viral on Chinese social media. But for Le Guyader, it was a testament to physical resilience.
Taking to Douyin, Le Guyader dedicated his feat to those suffering from Lyme disease, a debilitating condition he has battled since he was bitten by a tick at the age of 14.
In a moving clip filmed atop the Great Wall, he shouted out to his mum and shared his triumph with the world.
"Mum, I made it. I rode from France to China, covering 18,000km and crossing more than 30 countries. This is the highlight of my life," Le Guyader said in the video
"I want to send this victory to all patients with Lyme disease and chronic illnesses," he said.
"I have been tortured by Lyme disease for three years and I know how difficult it is to endure the treatment," he added.
The adventure cost him 15,000 euros (RM72,000), funded by savings from eight months of work and sponsorships
While a friend accompanied him for the Turkey–Georgia leg, Le Guyader braved the majority of the Silk Road route alone, navigating altitudes of 3,000m and harsh weather conditions.
"Perhaps it seems nothing special, but for a person who once suffered from serious Lyme disease, I think it is a marvellous effort," Le Guyader said.
After six weeks in China, he returned to France by plane in early December, leaving behind a story that has inspired millions to believe that "everything is possible".
