On 26 June 2011 I survived a heart attack ( I was riding my bike at the time). In that same week my 19 year old niece Vicky was diagnosed with a rare form of knee cancer. Vicky’s treatment involved 9 months of grueling chemotherapy and extensive knee surgery. Her knee and part of her thigh and shin bones were replaced with impressive pieces of metal. The pictures, taken from Vicky’s Facebook posts show the extent of what was involved. Vicky walked on her leg for the first time less than 24 hours after the operation! The chemotherapy took its toll. Vicky was often left sick, in pain, weak, and tired. Life for Vicky and her mother Jacky revolved around hospital appointments, hospital beds, emergency blood transfusions, intravenous chemotherapy. Vicky has now finished her treatment and life for her and Jacky is slowly getting back to normal.

On a visit to The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham I became aware of the Teenage Cancer Trust and the work it does for young people; children, teenagers, and young adults, I heard stories that brought tears to my eyes (they still do) and saw the wonderful facilities and support that they provide.

In September I have two aims; to cycle from Lands End to John o' Groats covering 1000 miles in 14 days, an average of over 70 miles a day, and to raise as much money as I can for the Teenage Cancer Trust. Vicky was supported by the Teenage Cancer Trust in many ways making her long stays in hospital more bearable, and increased her chances of recovery. Please help me to make a meaningful contribution to the work of the Teenage Cancer Trust. The links will take you to the TCT website here you will find more information on the work they do. To really understand how they make a difference watch the You Tube Video http://johndoeslejog.blogspot.co.uk/