Far too many of us have felt the pain of losing someone we love to heart disease. That’s why this June I’m taking on the London to Brighton ride for the British Heart Foundation — a charity that means so much to me and my family.

When my mam was just 13, doctors told her that my Gran, who was living with several serious heart conditions, might only have a few months left. But my Gran wasn’t ready to give in. With grit, courage, and endless determination, she defied the odds again and again. She fought through every setback and showed a resilience that inspired everyone around her.

My Gran passed away in 2007, but her fight, her spirit, and the way she lived her life continue to inspire me every day.

In recent years, I’ve faced my own health challenges, which kept me off the bike for some time. But now I’m ready to get back on it — and like my Gran, I want to push through, dig deep, and keep moving forward no matter how tough it gets.

That’s why I’m riding. This challenge is my way of honouring her memory and proving to myself that the resilience she showed runs in our family.

The British Heart Foundation funds groundbreaking cardiovascular research to save and improve lives, bring hope to families, and keep hearts beating across the UK. With your donation, you’ll be helping to power this life-saving work — so that fewer families have to face loss too soon.

Every mile I ride from London to Brighton will be in memory of my Gran, in gratitude for my Granda’s strength, and for everyone touched by heart disease. ❤️