I have been strong-armed into tackling the “Etape du Tour” on the 7th July this year.

 

The Etape is an annual race, organised by the same people responsible for the Tour de France, and allows amateur riders to tackle a mountain stage of the great race under tournament conditions. This year the race recreates stage 20 of the 2013 Tour de France, finishing at the ski station of Annecy-Semnoz at an altitude of 1655m. The 130km route takes in 5 peaks over 900m including the climb of the 1142m Col des Prés and the 1463m Mont Revard.

 

As well as having to put up with looking like a Lycra’d sausage atop a "far too skinny" bike, I will also have to endure burning legs, lungs and heart for (realistically) about 9 hours…..

 

In order to generate some greater good from all of this effort I am aiming to raise money in memory of Chloe Mansfield, the daughter of a good friend who passed away at the end of last year - and also in recognition of the unbelievable care and professionalism of all the doctors, nurses and support staff at Great Ormond Street Hospital who treated her.

 

Chloe was born on 22 February 2012 and all was great, but at the age of only 11 weeks Chloe suffered a massive respiratory collapse, and was rushed to Great Ormond Street Hospital. Whilst Chloe survived this initial collapse, she would never again breathe unassisted.

 

Chloe was subsequently diagnosed as having a rare and incurable lung condition, and finally passed away on 22 November 2012 – on her nine-month birthday. I am told that during her 6 months in hospital Chloe received the most fantastic care and treatment that could be expected.

 

All the money raised will go towards funding a children’s playroom in the new respiratory ward planned at Great Ormond Street Hospital. Chloe’s parents have told me of the importance of play in helping improve the quality of life and happiness for sick children. I hope that you agree that this is a worthy cause, and thank you for your generosity and support.