This photo is of me completing the South African Cape Town Argus Race in March 2005.  As many of you will know 6 months later I was diagnosed with invasive and aggressive bladder cancer.  After an initial operation and during 3 months of chemo I was able to keep myself reasonably fit in readiness for major surgery – a full cystectomy (bladder removal) on 13 March 2006.  By then I had set myself the ultimate goal, if everything went ok, of returning to Cape Town in 2007 to do the Argus one more time.

 

I have been so fortunate to have had the backing of a loving family and friends and some amazing work by a surgical team led by Michael Stower, supported by the fantastic York Against Cancer Charity. 

 

After the operation I spent 23 days in hospital and since then things have gone very well and I am getting back into my routine.  By the end of June I have managed four 20 mile cycle runs.  The first time I got back on my bike after the chemo and operation I did feel slightly saddle sore! But extra padding does work wonders!  During the time I was being treated for cancer I drew strength from the achievements of individuals such as Lance Armstrong and Jane Tomlinson but there were two special friends who gave me so much more inspiration.  They are Fraser and Rebecca Kennedy who are sufferers from Ataxia.  I have known them for many years in which time they never complain, are always smiling and phenomenally motivational.  They have achieved so much, demolishing so many barriers placed in front of them. 

 

They were a true inspiration to me during the darker times of my treatment and I have therefore committed to the assault on Zeebrugge 100km run on 16 September, organised by their Father, Graham, as a small way of saying thank you.

 

In the past when I have participated in charity events I have always felt slightly uncomfortable about approaching clients, contacts, friends and acquaintances for money.

This however is a one off following an exceptional period of my life. 

 

I have set a demanding target of £25,000 but in writing this I have already received commitments of £5,000. 

Please support Ataxia, a small but very worthwhile charity and if you have any money left over York Against Cancer could always do with a few extra quid.

 

I am determined to start and finish the ride even if it means going on the back of tandem (as long as Britney Spears is steering in front of me).

 

Donating to this site is very simple, fast and totally secure.  It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me.  Ataxia UK will receive your money faster.  If you are a UK tax payer an extra 20% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

 

Many thanks for your support.

 

David Dickson

Garbutt & Elliott