I'm sure most of you know that I've decided to grab the bull by the horns, so to speak, and cycle from Aylesbury (just outside London) to Edinburgh. This is 450+ miles (though I've been told that they may make this 500 or more!!!) which I'll do over 5 days. This is roughly the equivalent distance of the London to Brighton... and back... for five days.

The cyclists amongst you, or anyone who's ridden a bike for a long period of time will understand the challenges.

For those who haven't here's a breif taster of what I'll be going through:
- Saddle sores (combatted by what my local bike shop calls "minty arse lard")
- Cramps (which if I get them are a pain to deal with on the bike)
- Hills, rain and wind (environments - can't do anything about them)

... in short it's tough.

So why did i decide to this?

Firstly; I like a challenge and this is certainly tough
Secondly; Because of the PACE Centre

You know I value education. Educating able-bodied people is often challenging but educating children with severe physical disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, is a whole other challenge. Imagine trying to learn English when you can't co-ordinate your jaw muscles never mind being unable to dress in the morning!

PACE works with children with disabilites to help them develop the skills to become active members of society. This involves not only academic education but a whole series of activities based on the system of  "Conductive Education" including: physical skills, social skills and so on enabling the children to become more independent.

I strongly encourage you to have a look at their website (http://www.thepacecentre.org) for more information about the inspirational work they do.



I know we're in the midst of economic turmoil but both I, the staff and children at the PACE Centre would value any donation you could make... and spare a thought for my saddle sores.


Thanks

Graham