Story
Thanks for taking the time to visit our JustGiving page.
We hatched our plan to run over a few beers. It was partly a joke, with each of us somewhat unsure why we were doing this, or even how we would go about it. We had not thought it through, and raising money was a peripheral part of our sign-up. However, after beginning to seriously train for this event, we started to think about ways that we could create something beneficial that would outlast the momentary joy of crossing the finish line.
We chose First Descents because we don't want cancer to prevent people from having the opportunity to get outside that we have so enjoyed during our training. One of Henry's uncle figures, Steve Gichner, supported this group during his own ultimately fatal struggle with cancer. In a way, Gichner himself got Henry into long-distance events (a 120 mile bike ride) in the first place, so we feel that this is an appropriate way to keep that part of his legacy moving onward. Training and working outside have been so empowering for us, we can't imagine how profoundly it could effect people dealing with cancer.
"First Descents offers young adults living with and surviving cancer a free outdoor adventure experience designed to empower them to climb, paddle and surf beyond their diagnosis, defy their cancer, reclaim their lives and connect with others doing the same".
For more information, please visit the First Descents website: https://firstdescents.org
Thank you.
P.S St Illtyds is a trail run Ultra Marathon in Wales...