Photo: Vincent Perraudp
Name: Joshua Perry
Age: 21
Sponsors: Eastern Bikes, Vans Shoes, Bern Helmets, Staff BMX
How are you doing? Surprisingly well actually, thanks for asking.
The big news is that you found out not too long ago that you had a brain tumor that ended up not being cancerous. What were you thinking when you heard that news about it?
When I heard about it I didn’t know how to react or what to do. I had a full tank of gas and drove around for hours just thinking and trying to understand. As time went on and I learned more about it, I found out I’d be okay but still had the concern of it being cancerous. It was the most difficult thing to hear. I didn’t know if I’d survive, ride again, be normal, or what would happen.
The less graphic photo of where they had to make incisions in Josh’s head to remove the tumor
You had surgery just the other day to remove the tumor. How did everything go? Was it a pretty pain free deal or not so much?
Yeah, 2 days ago actually. They informed me they had gotten it all out (8 inches long, 2 inches wide, 2 inches deep) and that it was not cancerous and I had done really well. 5 hour operation. All I remember was in the room with my parents before anesthesia, in the most pain in my head, and they gave me relaxing meds that passed me out. I woke up in no pain and was all over 6 hours later. I was relieved and amazed that I had no pain. I still don’t have any pain, just a bit sore, but way better then what I expected.
How long will you be off your bike for?
They said no more than 2 months, but they also said in 4 weeks I can ride around on a road bike – just no ramps. I am still real sore and weak all over my body but Trish Bare Grounds is gonna help me with rehab and exercise so I’m psyched.
Photo: Tyler Northrup
What else is new in your life?
Not much, just pain free now and psyched. Actually, I have learned how many people support me and care about me and I’m really psyched to know that. I can’t thank everyone enough!!! You’re all amazing and helped out so much.
How are things going with Eastern these days? Any big news with them you can tell us about?
Things are great, all the riders are sweet and Leigh is the man! I love them all like a family. Not much news yet, but Leigh says when I’m better we’re going on some trips and I’m psyched. He is gonna visit me in Greenville this week also.
What about the rest of your sponsors? Anything going on at all?
Bern actually just talked about extending my contract another 2 years with a raise so that’s sweet. Best helmets in the world and cool dudes. Badders at Vans is the man and can’t thank him enough, Bob at Staff still hooking it up and running best bike shop ever. Thanks to all my sponsors for backing me up and supporting me over the years!
Where are you right now?
Hotel with my family in Durham next to the hospital so they can rest.
Where are you off to next?
Heading home tonight to my house in Greenville!
I know you had an edit drop not too long ago, but when can we expect to see some more fresh footage of you in the form of a web video or video part?
Terrell Gordy and Ryan Guettler have tons of left overs and when I’m back this week we’re gonna work on a left over edit. Nothing crazy just to keep it fresh and out there while I’m not riding and to keep me psyched. When I can ride for real Drew Bezanson and I have talked about a split edit and it’s gonna be fun and amazing. Can’t wait since he is unreal and such a good dude, Love him!
What does your average daily routine consist of these days?
Well for now it will be sleep, rest, exercise, nutrition, heavy meds haha got a list of like 8 I’m on. Healthy eating and fishing in the backyard and chillin with friends watching riding and all that. Just chillin until I can ride around on a road bike then move up to my BMX and then eventually the park! Can’t wait.
Tell us something people might not know about you.
I don’t really know haha, I’m a thankful dude with a new outlook on life and focus and just wanna say thanks to everyone and enjoy life! You never know when you might not be able to again. Have fun, enjoy life, love your friends and stay positive, it really helps!
What does the rest of 2010 have in store for you?
Lots of fun and I cant wait to see what it brings.
Any plans for tonight?
Go home see all my friends(family actually) and rest up and my Girlfriend is gonna make her “kickassarole” for dinner..haha so good.
