Martina's fundraiser for UNIQUE (Rare Chromosome Disorder Support Group)

Martina V is raising money for UNIQUE (Rare Chromosome Disorder Support Group)

Team: WE ARE DIOR - 2025 LONDON TO PARIS CYCLE CHALLENGE TO SUPPORT UNIQUE

London to Paris Charity Cycle · 13 June 2025

Unique is an open, supportive community for people who are looking to learn, share lived experiences and connect with others whose life has been touched by rare chromosome or gene disorders. We are here to support and celebrate people living truly unique lives. We are Unique… and so are you.

Story

Hi Everyone!

Guess what? For the third year in a row, I’m gearing up to pedal my way from London to Paris! That’s right. I'm swapping my Netflix marathons for chafing and questionable energy gels.

This ride isn’t just about my questionable fitness choices; it’s about making a real impact for those affected by rare chromosome conditions. I’ll be riding in support of Unique, a fantastic charity that helps families navigating the wild world of rare chromosome disorders. They’re like the superheroes of the chromosome world

This cause is especially close to my heart because my colleague and friend, Geoffrey Bailey, organizes this incredible ride. His son lives with 15q duplication syndrome, a rare chromosome condition.

A huge shoutout to him as he roped me into this madness. His dedication to his son, who has this condition, is beyond inspiring (even if it does involve wearing Lycra). I would never have imaging doing this if not for him pushing me to do so. Seeing the dedication and love Geoffrey has for his son, and knowing the challenges they face, motivates me to push my limits and raise as much as possible

In just three years, I've gone from "What's a gear?" to "Please god, let this hill end!" My greatest achievements include:

• Successfully clipping in and out of my pedals without falling over...most of the time.

• Mastering the art of the "I'm fine" smile while secretly dying inside on every incline.

• Becoming a “certified” team leader which basically means I get to wear a fancy bib and I get to fix punchers, mostly by asking other people to do it

Because of this madness, each year, my bike seems to need an "upgrade”. So, this year I am wondering what I can get new, maybe new wheel (TBC) , new tires (done!) … I keep checking what else?!... I get neck pain as I constantly turning my head on the street checking bikes, gears, bibs!!! Also, you can’t NOT hear the approaching hub!

Enough about my saddle sores, your donation directly impacts families affected by rare chromosome disorders. Every pound helps Unique provide vital resources, support, and information.

So, please donate today! Help me make this ride a success for Unique, and maybe, just maybe, I'll finally learn how to change a tire.

Thank you—you're the wind beneath my wheels (which desperately need an upgrade)!

Donation summary

Total
£2,004.74
+ £405.00 Gift Aid
Online
£2,004.74
Offline
£0.00

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