Help me turn two surgeries and a questionable decision into something positive...

Cyclists Fighting Cancer is an incredible charity and, given the challenges charities are facing with funding, they need our support more than ever.

Earlier this year I was meant to join colleagues on the London to Amsterdam fundraising ride. Unfortunately, my ankle had other ideas and instead of cycling to Amsterdam, I found myself recovering from surgery.

As if that wasn't enough, last year I also missed the London Marathon thanks to neck surgery. Apparently, my body has become very committed to finding new and creative ways to avoid endurance events.

That said, my ailments are insignificant compared to what thousands of children and young people face every year. In the UK, around 2,400 children and young people are diagnosed with cancer annually. Survival rates are thankfully improving, but 2 in 3 survivors will experience a long-term side effect from their treatment.

For children undergoing cancer treatment, staying active can make a huge difference. It helps combat treatment side effects, improves physical health, supports mental wellbeing and, importantly, allows kids to get outside and have some fun.

That's where Cyclists Fighting Cancer (CFC) comes in. They provide lightweight bikes, specially adapted trikes and support to help children with cancer regain confidence, independence and joy through cycling.

So, it's time for me to make my small contribution.

On Sunday 13 September, I'll be riding the London to Brighton Bike Ride. However, because I missed London to Amsterdam and clearly haven't learned my lesson, I've decided to make it considerably harder.

Once I reach Brighton, I'm planning to turn around and cycle back to London via the Downs Link trail, adding plenty of gravel, extra miles and opportunities for regret. My colleague Andrej has kindly agreed to keep me company and make sure I don't simply lie down in a hedge somewhere.

The result should be roughly 135 miles in total.

For context, since my surgeries the furthest I've ridden is about 30 miles.

So this could go brilliantly. Or it could go very badly. Either way, we'll give it our best shot.

CFC is aiming to provide another 1,000 bikes to children with cancer and their families in 2026, but they can only do that with support from people like us.

If you're able to donate, no matter how much, I'd be hugely grateful. Your donation will help an amazing charity continue its work and will provide me with some much-needed accountability when I'm questioning my life choices somewhere around mile 110.

Thank you for your support. 🚴‍♂️❤️