We are a team of 7 friends,cycling from London to Paris from 14 August 2014 to 16 August 2014 in support of a friend and Melanoma UK.

In 2001, then 20, our close friend Colinwas diagnosed with skin cancer (melanoma) after discovering a mole on his left thigh. It was removed by surgeons and he continued to have regular check-ups for five years. But last summer, he found a lump in his groin. A biopsy was taken and, a few weeks later, doctors revealed the cancer had returned.  A further blow came when he underwent a scan which showed two lesions – abnormal areas of tissue – on his liver, as well as solid lumps on both of his lungs. Doctors found the lesions on his liver were birthmarks but we later received the news that the cancer has spread to his lungs and subsequently his brain– known as stage-four melanoma.

Melanoma was not a disease any of us were particularly familiar with and we have been shocked by the stark realities of the illness.  Whilst we can offer support and friendship to our friend as he undergoes his treatment, we are all obviously unable to provide any practical help. So, as a show of support for him, in order to raise some money and importantly as a way of raising awareness of the illness we are going to cycle from London to Paris in August 2014. 

We intend to complete the “Avenue Verte” route in 3 days, which will involve approximately 250 miles of cycling in 3 days (dependent upon our final route). None of us are avid cyclists and in fact most of us are afraid of traffic. 

We are asking for sponsorship  and donations to try and raise money which will go towards raising awareness of Melanoma,  research in to the disease and treatments for it and hopefully if possible to support programmes aimed at helping the families of loved ones after diagnosis.

Any donation big or small would be really appreciated. Any offers of help with equipment, tips or encouragement along the way would also be very well received.