I am entering the Ride London-Surrey 100 on July 30th. I selfishly entered (not expecting a place) in order to get motivation to stay fit and mitigate the effects of 20yrs+ in the wine trade and of becoming a father. However, since acceptance I have a good cause which I would like to raise some money for at the same time.
Many of you will know my gorgeous sister Rachel (Tig) but most of you will not be aware how poorly she has been. Essentially, over two months ago she was walking her beloved dogs on Dartmoor when she stumbled and fell. This seemingly innocuous accident resulted in her being taken by ambulance to hospital where she ended up remaining, virtually bed-ridden, for the following eight weeks. Not only had she suffered a severe fracture of her hip, it was discovered that the root cause was advanced secondary breast cancer. Needless to say this has been a great shock to her and all the family. The initial outlook for her future mobility suggested wheelchair use at best and risk of further injury almost certain. However, due to the fantastic Orthopaedic team she has had complicated hip replacement and reconstructive surgery. She now has the opportunity to potentially walk normally again, something she didn't imagine only a few weeks ago.
Tig is now settled at M&D's and progressing well. As for the cancer, the hormone treatment is underway and we are all hoping for positive results in the coming months and years.
Throughout this most difficult time, Tig has remained incredibly brave, strong, stoic and good-humoured. She has been in immense pain as well as having to deal with the impact of such a life-changing turn of events. Her family are incredibly proud of her. It is her choice that any money raised will go to the amazing Orthopaedic Dept at Royal Devon & Exeter Hosp (Charity1061384) who have absolutely changed her life.
This ride is the most challenging thing I will have done. Any support will mean the world to the both of us.