Cancer.  There's that word again.  I'd be lying if I said I felt anything other than hate when it's mentioned.  Maybe you agree?

For me, cancer has touched and sometimes taken far too many people that I care about. Lovely, bright, energetic, amazing, good people who in the grand scheme of lifetime kharma definitely did not deserve to have to deal with it -- though it has to be said that having cancer showed without exception that these people were strong, fearless and every bit as lovely as I knew they were pre-cancer.  I am beyond fortunate to know and have known them.  This is for sure.

When I let myself think I about it properly, I think my overall feeling about cancer is one of helplessness or powerlessness. I am powerless to change the fact that people I care about are suffering and it's frustrating.  But, it's also why I've chosen to really challenge myself to help raise money for Macmillan.  When cancer patients need answers, support, and advice, Macmillian is a good, reliable source of all of those things and their nurses are kind, caring people who understand the cancer journey and all the bumps that can occur on the way.  From my point of view it's great to know that someone has the answers for my loved ones when I don't.  

So in June and July this year I'm riding 3 big challenge rides (of 100 miles or more each) culminating with the mother of all European Sportives, the Marmotte (103 miles, 5000metres of climbing in one day in the French Alps on the 7th July), for which I have been training since September last year.  It is without a doubt going to be the toughest day I've ever spent on a bike but hey, what's a few big mountains compared to kicking cancer's butt, eh?   Yeah, that's what I think too. Piece of cake.

So, I'd be really grateful if you'd consider sponsoring my ride and helping Macmillan to keep supporting the people we care about when they need it most.  

Thanks tons,

Emily xx