Hello,

First and foremost if you've got this far then thank you for taking the time to read this story. On the 17th June 2021, my cousin Jo sadly passed away from a brave battle with adrenal cancer, 17 days before I was due to complete the 60-mile cycle from Manchester to Blackpool to raise money for The Christie but also to raise money to send Jo and her family on a trip to London, one that sadly never happened. 

This year, on Sunday the 10th July I will complete the 96-kilometer bike ride for the 2nd time, starting in Salford Quays and finishing below the iconic Glitterball on Blackpool's South Promenade. I can only envisage that this year's cycle will be slightly more comfortable than last year, as a 3-day spell of food poisoning leading up to and on the day of the event caused a few pit stops...

The Christie is the largest single site cancer centre in Europe and the first UK centre to be accredited as a comprehensive cancer centre. They treat more than 60,000 patients a year, and Jo often described The Christie as her "safe haven". Unfortunately, it is very difficult to walk into a room these days and come across a person who hasn't been touched by cancer in one way or another, therefore highlighting the importance of raising money to support this incredible charity.

Without Jo, the family trip was irrelevant, and the 50% raised (£1615) for that trip will be the first donation for this years cycle.

Any donation, small or big, is hugely appreciated. Thank you again for taking the time to read this story, there's only one thing left to do...

Saving lives. Making breakthroughs. Holding hands. Wiping tears. Lifting spirits. Raising funds. Ringing bells. Beating cancer.

JP x