On Sunday, 24 September, I shall be taking part in the Birmingham Velo to support young Harry. The Velo is an unforgettable but gruelling 100 mile cycle ride - If you're not a cyclist then, trust me, 100 miles is a challenge for a fit, young, virile, toned and seasoned athlete - something I'm not!

Last October, Harrison, the son of a close friend and colleague at KPMG, was diagnosed with Philadelphia Positive Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (PPALL). Until a couple of months ago, Harry had been ensconced in Birmingham Children's Hospital undergoing extensive treatment. Christmas, New Year, his 13th birthday were all spent in hospital!

If the chemotherapy treatment alone wasn't bad enough, Harry has had a blood clot on the brain, kidney failure and regular platelet and/or blood transfusions to cope with. It is testimony to his positive attitude and fighting qualities that he has coped with all of this and still manages to remain positive. He is an inspiration to us all

Harry's mom (Steph), dad (Derek), sister (Ciara) and brother (Max) have all taken their turn alongside him, ensuring that there hasn't been a night when one of them hasn't slept by his bedside. Their support and commitment has been truly immense.

With fingers and toes crossed, I am pleased to report that Harry's prognosis is improving and that he was discharged as an in-patient in early August. He will however, continue to have regular visits to hospital and have high risk chemotherapy treatment through to at least March next year. This will then be followed by a course of oral chemo treatment.

Cure Leukaemia is one of the charities that KPMG support locally and indeed Harry is organising his own gig in December featuring the Garage Band; all proceeds in aid of Cure Leukaemia.

On this occasion, I'd like to do something for Harry and his family. I hope you'll help me to raise some funds to enable this very brave lad and the family to treat themselves in whatever manner they see fit.

Many thanks.

Andy