A big thank you to all my family, friends and colleagues who supported me.

Between 21 and 23 September we cycled The Great Glen Way - 140 miles, from Inverness to Fort William and back again.

My aim was to raise awareness of the BDA Benevolent Fund and find some additional cash for it. I am extremely grateful to everyone who supported me, I’ve raised over £1,200 and with Gift Aided to be added to this, £1,500!.

I must admit it was quite strenuous. We stayed overnight in reasonable accommodation and while pedalling enjoyed the amazing views - and thankfully we had some beautiful sunshine, rather than too much Scottish rain! 

We only took a small rucksack each with literally a change of clothing, a toothbrush and a razor. If you’ve got to carry it, the last thing you want is too much kit, especially when you’ve got to pedal it uphill.

After spending over 42 years in dentistry, on retirement I decided to try and help out less fortunate colleagues and their families. Three years ago I got involved with the Fund, becoming the Wessex region’s Trustee.

The Fund is being stretched by ever more applications for help from the desperate, the unfortunate and the vulnerable.

You can still help the Fund today, with a much needed donation.

The BDA Benevolent Fund relies heavily on donations from other dentists. In today’s economic situation this is obviously becoming more difficult and it’s a challenging time for everyone. 

So thanks again to all my friends, family and dental colleagues who supported me and also encouraged me to complete my challenge.

And how about organising your own ‘Be Active’ event as well?  And do your bit to help dentists in times of need!

Mine is just one of many events to take place as part of the ‘Be Active for the Ben Fund’ campaign, that will run until next March. I’m hoping we can really raise the profile of the Fund, as there are still some potential beneficiaries out there who don't know about it and how it could help them.

 Dentists are no more protected from the problems of modern life than anyone else. They are just as likely to suffer from accidents, long-term illness and debilitating stress. These can have severe financial consequences for anyone - no one is immune. 

  

Mike