Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

The Fireflies are a special group of people. Every year in June, they cycle over the Alps to the Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival. The challenge is to ride more than 1000 kms over at least 20 mountains in 8 days to raise funds for Bloodwise. This year I will be one of the thirty five saddles riding with them. My challenge is to raise a minimum of £4000. You can check out details of the challenge at: www.thefirefliestour.com

Like most people I have had a lifetime of knowing family and friends who have suffered, and sometimes died, from cancer. Bloodwise raises funds to support life-saving research into the causes and treatment of leukaemia and other blood cancers. It is believed that leukaemia is the model of all cancers and achieving a greater understanding of this disease will help in the fight against all other forms of cancer. To find out more about the incredible work done by Bloodwise, look them up at: https//:bloodwise.org.uk

A few years ago a great friend and colleague, Debbie Wilson, was taken by the disease, haltingly, and before our eyes. She had led an amazing and storied life, and was loved by all who worked with her, or were lucky enough to be her friend. Debbie had taken up cycling in the last years before she died, and I sometimes accompanied her. So Debbie, this ride is for you.

Please join me in fundraising for all our friends and family who have suffered this disease, and for the memory of my friend Debbie.

Thank you. For those who suffer, we ride.

Richard

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