Cycling 970 miles from John O Groats to Lands End Solo

martin waters is raising money for Be More Ben
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Cycling John O Groats to Lands End Solo · 7 May 2021

Our son Ben was diagnosed with DIPG, a very rare and aggressive brain tumour, aged 7. Previously fit and well, on diagnosis, we were told his tumour was inoperable and incurable and that we had at best a year left with our son. Despite taking part in a clinical trial and having intensive treatment, Ben passed away 6 months later. Following his death, we found little in the way of regular, ongoing support that was informal and for the whole family. To lose a child and feel that there is no help available to you is frightening and leaves you feeling isolated and vulnerable. We set up The Benjamin Pritchard Foundation – Be More Ben to enhance bereavement support and services for parents, families and siblings who have lost a child under the age of 18.

Story

Ben was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour and passed away 6 months after his initial diagnosis aged 8 years old in 2017.

I work as a transport nurse for the WATCH (Wales and West Acute Transport for Children) team based in Bristol.  We are a Critical Care Transport Team for children.  I met Ben and his family when I was asked to help transfer him from Bristol Royal Hospital for Children to Charlton Farm Children's Hospice for palliative care.

Ben played football for our local side, Portishead Sparks and was also a friend of my stepson Isaac.  Ben also had a love for my football team Bristol City.  When I transferred Ben he was looking very smart in a full Bristol City home kit.

Following his passing Ben's parents Sarah and Shane, set up The Benjamin Pritchard Foundation – Be More Ben in June 2018 to support parents and families who have lost a child under the age of 18.

The charity aims to provide a reliable, informal support network for parents whose child has died and their immediate families as well as offering ongoing services such as counselling and complimentary therapies. In addition, they can give support to families who have a terminally ill child receiving end of life care and can offer a parents perspective to professionals working in end of life care and bereavement to enhance their working practice.

Setting off from Scotland on 7th May, I am aiming to cycle a 970 mile route from John o Groats to Lands End over 8 days (over 120 miles a day.  I'm carrying everything, including tent, sleeping bag, food and stove on my bike.  I'm riding solo, although hopefully a few friends will join me for parts of the ride en route.  I'm planning on doing regular Facebook updates and images of my progress.  If you're interested in following please send me a friend request. I'm planning on posting my daily ride details on Strava so search me up on there if you're interested.

I've chosen this charity, as I feel that's a really worthwhile cause and can make a real difference to the families they help.  It's been a difficult year fundraising for charities and I know times have been hard for people.  Thank you so much for choosing to donate and helping.

Will no doubt be a pub stop near Bristol on my way South, all welcome to join me for a cider.



Donation summary

Total
£5,090.21
+ £1,057.50 Gift Aid
Online
£5,090.21
Offline
£0.00

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