As some of you may know, until recently I had been off work for a number weeks with neck, back and wrist problems. After many scans, electrocution and general feeling really low, I'm now having treatment including two very lovely nerve root injections deep and painfully into the right and left sides of my neck (the pictures on the page aren't actually of me, the hospital policy wouldn't allow them to photograph the needles going in - I asked !) but you get the general idea. 

I'm terrified of needles so wasn't a great experience and one thing that got me through going for the second one was the idea of using the sympathy vote to help raise a few pounds for this great cause that I am cycling for in September. I haven't been able to get on the bike this year so going from zero to a 100k ride in 6 weeks is going to be a challenge - but if you can support the cause that will give me all the motivation I need to get my ass literally in gear.  

Oh, and I'm back in the saddle at work full time now so feel free to sympathise about that as well ;-)

Wheels for Change is an annual fundraising cycling challenge, led by Barclays colleagues to raise money for charity. This year, Wheels for Change is raising money for the Prince’s Trust, one of Barclays’ UK charity partners. The Prince’s Trust specifically focuses on 13 to 30 year-olds who are unemployed, struggling at school or at risk of exclusion. At Barclays we want to help the next generation achieve their ambitions. Our 5 Million Young Futures goal is our commitment to do this and by working with organisations like the Prince’s Trust we are able to support the next generation, helping them to build stronger futures for themselves and their families. This fundraising initiative will help to invest in the future; Barclays employees are invited to take part and to help us to support more young people to achieve their ambitions – this is what Citizenship at Barclays does.