The London to Paris Trip was successfully completed on 22nd August

 

Fat ( and fitter ) Old Man – Even Fitter Young Boy

Those of you who have followed this story over recent months may understand what absolute joy it is to be writing this, and for those of you who have not then I will summarise the first part of the story……

Our Grandson, Ernie, was diagnosed with Retinoblastoma ( this is a very aggressive form of cancer which only attacks they eyes of young Children ) at the age of 3 months. He has, at the age of 3 years now, had more than 120 medical consultations, 35 operations, two bouts of chemotherapy and his right eye removed.

During the 2 ½ years of this roller coaster of emotion for our family, we have been supported by a small, very focussed and wonderful charity,

The Childhood Cancer Trust. They specialise in supporting families with children who have this eye cancer, funding specific research, and creating awareness of the disease.

On this point, the cancer can be recognised when looking at photographs of babies and toddlers. Often we see “red eye” reflections, but if you see a “white eye” reflection it is possible that the child may have retinoblastoma. We suggest that you refer this to your GP as soon as you see it. Speed is essential and GP’s will take it seriously.

The best news in the world is that Ernie is very well at the moment and is showing no signs of new cancers.

To show our appreciation for the support that The Childhood Eye Cancer Trust gave our family, I agreed to enter the London to Paris Charity Cycle Ride to raise money for them on 18^th - 22^nd August. I am writing this the day after.

 I managed to do all 306 miles of it in the four days, although I did find it very tough, especially in the very hilly sections. I huffed and puffed like an old, wounded grizzly bear!!

87 of us finished the course! I am tired but extremely happy to have raised £ 16,200 so far, with several donations still on the way to us.

Many of you will have entered the Lagavulin, very special whiskey raffle. I am very pleased to announce that it was won by Dr Balla Krishnan who is a much respected Elder of the Tamil community, who as a whole, have supported this appeal so generously

On behalf of my family, CHECT and myself, I thank each and every one of you who have been so generous with your donations. You have also been so kind and supportive in the wonderful messages you have sent encouraging me during the training and the ride.

CHECT is a truly wonderful charity and I urge you all to consider doing a challenge of some sort on their behalf in 2011 ( plenty of time to train!). Please contact me about this and I will give you every assistance. NB If I can do it I am sure that most of you can too…. Give it a go!

Thanks a million,

Brian Thorogood