I would like to raise money to support WestMARC, the west of Scotland regional centre for patients who require wheelchairs and prosthetics. I would like to support the improvement of the reception area for children and young people.

As some of you know I have knee problems and had been walking with the aid of a stick for almost 2 years. I've had surgery and to benefit my recovery my surgeon recommended weight loss and a bit of cycling and swimming. Feeling pretty sorry for myself post surgery I embarked on a weight loss programme and started upping the miles on my shiny new bike. All good so far...

As part of my work I have visited WestMARC and have met many of the staff providing an excellent service to adults and children (many of whom are amputees). I have found this extremely humbling and it fair put my knee pain into perspective! I told myself "Get on with it John - there are people far worse off than you". During my visits I noted that the reception area wasn't particularly 'child friendly' and thought I might see about raising some money to support some basic improvements. So, I've decided to set myself a few challenges to raise funds to create a more child friendly atmosphere in this clinical setting.

So, supported by my wife, I am about to embark on a series of cycling challenges:

1. Etape Loch Ness, 29th April - 66 miles

2. Tour de Forth, 3rd June - 60.5 miles

3. Pedal for Parkinsons, 19th August - 62 miles

4. Pedal for Scotland, 9th September - 45 miles (plus home and back!)

This will involve a fair amount of training and a few lifestyle changes but I hope you will join me on my journey. Please spare a few pounds or whatever you can afford - I'd really like to support WestMARC to ensure that all children and young people have a warm and welcoming reception area for their treatment and appointments.

Many thanks

John