I learnt about the 700 Miles to Hope cycle ride earlier this year, through my work as a statistician. This annual event is a key fundraiser for the Matthew and Andrew Akin Foundation (www.matthewandandrew.org) which supports those affected by HLH (haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis), a rare but life-threatening illness that primarily affects children and has an enormous impact on their families. When I heard about the ride, I knew it was time to get involved to support patients on a whole new level; for me, this is turning data into a reality.

But the decision to get involved was the easy part! Although I was already a keen cyclist, when I started training I had never ridden further than 30 miles – and I confess I had to call international rescue (i.e. my wife) because I was too exhausted to make it home. I am now working through a 5 month programme of focused, intensive training to make sure that I complete the ride and raise as much money as possible. I’m now regularly completing 60-mile rides – including getting myself home!
The challenge is on: to cycle 700 miles in 7 days, from Jackson, MS to Natchez, MS to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, from 16 to 22nd September.

I do hope you will support me for this important cause. All money donated will go to the Matthew and Andrew Akin Foundation; I am personally covering my own costs for taking part.

The 700 Miles to Hope ride was born out of the idea of cycling across the country, dedicating each day to a child fighting HLH, in in order to raise awareness and funding. Through this initiative, HLH is being fought one pedal stroke at a time.

You can find out more at http://www.matthewandandrew.org/our-events/700-miles-to-hope.html