I have done some questionable things in my time. But why on earth am I attempting to cycle a stage of this year's Tour de France on the 10th July? And it's not any old stage - it happens to be a 191 kilometre, three mountain climb in the French Alps, finishing at the top of the legendary Alpe d'Huez. And if that wasn't enough of a challenge, the organisers have stipulated that an average minimum pace of 20 k.p.h. must be achieved - any slower, then it's race over...

So why? Of all the pain and suffering I've endured in training for the above (including giving up beer for 9 months!), nothing can compare to the events of last year. Eighteen months ago my wife Tracey was complaining of back pain. A visit to our local GP and a subsequent visit to an Oncology specialist,  resulted in them finding a tumour the size of a pineapple ‘resting’ on her lower spine - she was diagnosed with having a very aggressive form of  Lymphatic Cancer.

We knew nothing of the disease, but we quickly learnt that it was the seventh most common form of cancer and that the chance of Tracey not surviving was one in three. Our world was turned upside down. I was overwhelmed with the horrific thought of being a single parent with two young children. Within 24 hours of diagnosis, Tracey was administered her first round of chemotherapy - a course of action that lasted 6 months. She was incredibly courageous throughout, coping with all the awful side effects of the chemo, and as much as the treatment allowed, continued to be a full time mother.

It was the worst period of my life, but thankfully Tracey was given the all clear in May of last year and has been in remission ever since. The support we had was incredible - from our family, friends and work colleagues, but Tracey wouldn't be here today if wasn't for the wonderful care, attention and expertise she received from the doctors who treated her, and for the charities that support their crucial work.

So that’s why. To raise money for a very good cause – the Lymphoma Association. Not only are they tirelessly searching for a cure for this horrible disease, they also provide constant counseling and advice for both patients and their families alike.

More information about the charities work and the cycle event can be found on there respective websites, www.lymphoma.org and www.letapedutour.com

Thank you so much for visiting my fundraising page. Any donation would be gratefully received and you can sponsor me online.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Lymphoma Association will receive your money faster and, if you are a taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

Many thanks for your support.

Bonzo