<p>When people reach a certain (significant) age they feel the need to mark the occasion by a rite of passage. &nbsp;My good friend is about to reach such a milestone so has decided to show the world that he is not over the hill - by cycling over lots of hills. &nbsp;He has convinced me, and another gullible companion, to join him in this epic journey.</p> <p>I would like to take the opportunity to raise funds for the Children's Heart Association as they have been a big part of my family's life since Rachel was born with a heart condition.</p> <p>We have been extremely grateful that Rachel has been blessed good health - and an amazing sense of fun. &nbsp;The Children's Heart Association is there to bring families around the North West together so newly diagnosed parents can learn from Rachel and others like her. &nbsp;They organise trips and events where having fun is the main aim and where parents can get support from others in similar situations. &nbsp;Recent visits have been to the Museum of Science and Industry, the theatre for a Horrible Histories show, and a tour of Concorde - and they find any excuse to hold a party!</p> <p>The Association also raises funds to give the hospital units the sort of equipment that the NHS finds difficult to provide. &nbsp;Things like extra 24 hour blood pressure monitors so tests can be done immediately without a worrying delay. &nbsp;They've recently bought 300 books so each new family can take home a trustworthy source of information and support. &nbsp;They regularly buy blood testing kits so children can be sure their blood thinning drugs are at the correct dose without a trip to the hospital. Even something simple like a new DVD player in the waiting area can help calm nerves before an appointment or a portable games player can help a teenager pass the time during a lengthy stay on an adult ward. &nbsp;These are things that are requested by the fantastic cardiac liaison nurses to make children's lives easier in hospital and the Children's Heart Association is happy to help.</p> <p>Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving &ndash; they&rsquo;ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they&rsquo;ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it&rsquo;s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.</p> <p>So please dig deep and donate now.</p>