Hi,

 

I've cycled almost 2500 miles through 14 different European countries and regions, from Corfu to Wales, to raise awareness of prostate cancer and money for the Prostate Cancer Charity. I reached home on 19 October and you can read a full account of my trip and see some photos by clicking here.

 

Many thanks to everyone who donated so generously while I was on the road, canal towpath and forest track. But I'm still collecting, so please continue to donate all you can to this worthy cause.

 

Background...

 

I'm Chris Bell, an engineer from West Wales, and I turned 60 during my ride. I mainly camped and stayed in cheap hotels (click on the thumbnail to see my diddy tent), met lots of interesting people and found the bridge where my parents met in Yugoslavia after the War. The first 2 weeks, from Corfu to Slovenia, were with my friend Andrew but I did the remaining 5 weeks home alone. It was tough and I had a few problems along the way, but I enjoyed myself very much all the same. Now that I'm home, I can't believe it's all over!

 

I have prostate cancer, a disease which kills 30 men every day in the UK. The Prostate Cancer Charity helps sufferers like me by providing valuable information and support. It also funds research, some of which has already contributed to the hormone therapy that many of us are undergoing, and it is ultimately striving for a world where men are no longer blighted by this unnecessary disease.

 

All men are at risk of getting prostate cancer. It's the most common male cancer in the UK, but how many men know its symptoms (urinary and ejaculatory changes)? If I hadn't been so ignorant then I'd have visited my doctor sooner when I could have been cured. As it is I've just got to live with it and it'll get me in the end. But it's focussed my outlook on life and I've enjoyed the last 5 years, in its shadow, with a new appreciation of just how wonderful life can be. Don't let the years simply pass you by but make the most of every day you have!

 

Donating from this webpage is simple, fast and safe. Your money goes straight to the Prostate Cancer Charity and Gift Aid is added if you're a UK taxpayer. Please donate generously.

 

Many thanks,

Chris.