I'm raising money to show gratitude to the staff at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital for the support and care they have given my dad, John MacAulay.

In June 2016, my dad became unwell, critically so. He was admitted to hospital with a suspected infection, which we soon discovered had taken up residence in his lower spine, causing significant damage. The months from July to December 2016 were amongst the worst and best of my life, witnessing my dad in intensive care with only a glimmer of hope, to seeing his tremendous strength, learning to walk again. The staff that cared for my dad were outstanding and offered much needed support not only for him but also for our whole family.

For anyone who knows my dad they will realise that he is someone who is private, that does not broadcast his woes. Suffice to say his journey back to health has been fraught with highs and lows, sometimes with little or no progress, and at points the prospect of the worst possible outcome. Without the knowledge, expertise and care of the medical staff we could be in a very different situation. His steel and determination to get better has been awe-inspiring with him recently returning to one of his great passions – cycling. Prior to becoming ill my dad would think nothing of jumping on (one of) his trusty road bikes and cycling for many miles. Even on a horrid day, you could find him out in the garden, training on his rollers or turbo to maintain his fitness and stamina. Doctors said his fitness level was one of the saving graces during the worst stages of his illness.

During the latter months of his hospital stay, he transferred to the National Spinal Injuries Unit. It was here that I saw some of the fellow patients that have further inspired my desire to raise funds.

I’ll use the update function on here as the sportive approaches – Saturday 2nd September 2017. Please cross your fingers for good weather - no rain and no punctures.