Cycling safety message too real to ignore

But as well as her now legendary physical fitness and mental determination, what has also proved key to her remaining on next month's NatWest Island Games team sheet is the fact she was wearing a cycling helmet at the time.

Without its protection, the coast road collision between her and a van – which pulled out in front of her bike during a pre-tournament training ride – could quite easily have resulted in fatal consequences.

Although she recalls nothing of the Vazon incident in March that put her in intensive care with 11 broken bones and a punctured lung, the 2014 Commonwealth Games competitor realises just what a lucky escape she had.

One glance at her damaged headwear, split in two from the 30mph impact, tells its own story.

And so potent is that story that she says she now feels 'morally obliged' to warn other cyclists of the inherent dangers of riding helmet-free.

With just 36 days to go before Jersey and an even busier preparation mountain to climb, it is admirable that the sportswoman appears as equally determined to raise the profile of cycling safety as her fitness levels.

The launch of her awareness campaign encouraging cyclists to wear safety headgear on all rides will be welcome news for long-time campaigners Headway, who support islanders living with the effects of brain injuries.

Accidents can devastate lives in a heartbeat, yet small but vital precautions can alleviate unnecessary risk. Design has come so far that any excuses over headwear comfort also no longer wash.

With the transport strategy aiming to encourage more people to get on their bikes and some calling for helmets, as car seatbelts, to become compulsory in Guernsey, the athlete's message could not have come at a more significant time.

Whether the estimated 10% of cyclists who don't wear one will heed the warning is unclear. What is more certain is that very few others in such a situation are as likely to make such a miraculous return to the saddle.