The Challenge (Jonathan, Sarah and Brian)

We will be cycling over 900 miles in 9 days from John O’Groats, the most Northern point in Scotland to Land’s End, the most south-westerly tip in England. After much training over the last few months (some more than others – ok for those of us who are retired!) we set off from John O’Groats on Saturday, August 21^st, arriving with rather tired legs 9 days later on Sunday, August 29^th!  Below is a summary of our trip. 

Day 1: John O’Groats to Dingwall (110 miles)

Day 2:  Dingwall to Crianlarich (123 miles)

Day 3: Crianlarich to

Day 4: to Kirkby Lonsdale (90 miles)

Day 5: Kirkby Lonsdale to

Day 6: Whitchurch to Chepstow (107 miles)

Day 7: Chepstow to Dunsford (110 miles)

Day 8: Dunsford to St. Austell (65 miles)

Day 9: St. Austell to Lands End (55 miles) – THE END!!!

Providing us with much needed support is Jonathan’s Father, Malcolm, who will be driving the entire route with our luggage, tool kits, food/drinks supplies etc! 

Why?

To raise money for UCARE, a cancer charity close to our hearts (see Jonathan’s story below).  UCARE is a charity founded by a group of clinicians, patients and supporters who care about fighting urological cancers. UCARE’s main aims are:

- To support research into the causes, prevention and treatment of urological cancers and related conditions.

- To promote the development of new technologies that will help to improve the diagnosis and treatment of urological cancers and related conditions.

- To provide equipment and facilities for research, and for the treatment of cancer patients.

- To provide information and education about urological cancers.

More information can be found at: http://www.ucare-oxford.org.uk/index.html    

The trip is entirely self-funded so all money raised will go straight to UCARE. 

Jonathan's Story

Emerson once said “make the most of yourself, for that is all there is of you” and since I have been ill that is what I try to do.  In May 2004 I was diagnosed with testicular cancer which spread to my lymph and lungs.  After surgery and three months of chemotherapy, I was put into remission and all seemed well.  Unfortunately, after two and a half years, in May 2007, following a routine scan, a lump was found in my chest attached to the outside of my lung.  By the time of the surgery a few weeks later the lump had grown from the size of a thimble to that of a hockey ball.  I underwent chest surgery and when it was removed it turned out to be cancer again.  It took me the better part of 2007 to recover from that surgery but thanks to the skill of the Oncologists, Nurses and Surgeons that have treated me since the beginning of my journey with cancer, I am alive and well. 

Which is why, on the plane back from Kilimanjaro last year I decided that my next adventure would be John O Groats to Lands End on a bike and being prone to actually doing what I say, we find ourselves on the brink of another great adventure…..

I decided to undertake this ride for a number of reasons; to prove to myself and to anyone else who is dealing with this disease that it doesn't have to limit what you do in your life, to give something back to the brilliant people who took care of me and to raise money to research this illness to help others in the future.

We leave at the end of August for best part of 950 miles in 9 days so sore bottoms and burning thighs aplenty, I’m still not sure I know what I’m supposed to be doing with chamois cream though!

Joining me in this escapade are my girlfriend, Sarah, and her father Brian, both of whom put me to shame in terms of fitness and enthusiasm for the journey ahead, and better companions I couldn’t wish for.

Riding support is my Father who I actually feel more sorry for than us riding as he has, including getting us there and home again, nearly 2000 miles to drive in a car watching me labour up every incline and risk life and limb on every descent.

During my battles with Cancer, my illness was a journey for me, a long painful climb along what seemed like a never ending road and now I’m doing what will seem like another never ending road but at least this time there’ll be people literally sharing the journey (and pain!) with me. 

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor us: UCARE (OXFORD) gets your money faster and, if you’re a taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

So please sponsor us now!

Thank you.