When, last year, I rashly decided to cycle from the channel coast of France to the Mediterranean it was just for fun, but now I am on the brink of setting off for the second leg I have decided after all to ask for sponsorship.

Odyssey, is perhaps an unlikely sounding organisation in that it offers outward bound type activities for those who have or have had cancer. The emotional and psychological effects of cancer are, for many people, as deeply disturbing as the disease itself. Odyssey uses the environment, art and music and the stimulation of uncertainty and surprise to help participants rebuild confidence and regain their zest for life.

You can find out more on their website at http://www.odyssey.org.uk but as someone who has benefitted from their programme I can assure you that the week spent with Odyssey was unforgettable and I’d like to make it possible for others to enjoy its benefits.

It costs about £800 to pay for a place on the course (there is no charge to participants) and this is my fund-raising aim.

Even if you don't decide to donate, feel free to visit  my inexpert blog at  http://hotwheelsinfrance.blogspot.com/ ,  where you can share the ups and downs of the journey and  photos of me, my bike and my daughters who kindly agreed to supervise me en route. I will be attempting to add some details of the second leg as I go along – rather depends on the availability of internet cafes in the wilds of North-west France.

Many thanks for taking the time to visit my page - and feel free to pass the address to any rich friends.

Barbara

PS I've just discovered that there is a bike path from Brest to Budapest, and crossed paths with someone travelling from London to Capetown by bike.  Next year looks interesting!