Four years ago I received the devastating news that my dad had contracted Myeloma, a rare bone marrow cancer. I want to tell you a little about his battle against the disease just so you know how important your donations are to my family and everyone else within the Myeloma community. 

The statistic are startling- an incredible 20% of people with Myeloma die within 60 days of diagnosis and the five year survival rate is just 46%.

My dad has shown immense strength to battle the cancer and as a family we are incredibly proud. Over the last three years he has undergone debilitating treatments and had some very low points. However, luckily the last drug used on my dad worked and he is currently stable and incredibly fit. But the hard truth is that Myeloma is a relapsing and remitting cancer which means, in time, it will mutate and render his current drug useless so different drugs are needed.

I have obviously witnessed this on a personal level but I know for a fact that many other families have had similar experiences but sadly not all of them have been so lucky.The good news is there are treatments in the pipeline but funds are needed urgently to develop them so they are ready for the next round in the battle. 

This is why my dad and all the other thousands battling Myeloma need your donations. These drugs that are on the horizon could literally save my dads and many other thousands of lives. 

Being inspired by the 2012 British Olympic Cycle team, my dad has developed a huge passion for cycling and has dedicated himself and done some incredible work for Myeloma UK including setting up and promoting the London to Paris ride. 

This is why I am asking you to sponsor me to ride alongside my dad from London to Paris. I will be attempting to cycle 500km in 4 days which will be a huge challenge for all involved but I know with every pedal I will be helping to make Myeloma history. Any donations however big or small will be greatly appreciated and I thank you in advance from my family and all the myeloma community. 

Joe