I am taking part in the Artivion Cycling Challenge in support of the Aortic Dissection Charitable Trust, raising funds for specialist nurses dedicated to transforming the lives of patients with Aortic Dissection.

Aortic Dissection is a time-critical emergency with potentially life-ending or life-changing consequences for those affected; about 4000 people of all ages per year in the UK & Ireland suffer an Aortic Dissection. Many die before reaching specialist care, and half will ultimately lose their lives to the condition.

With specialist care and surgery, many thousands of survivors require ongoing surveillance, access to consistent follow-up care, further intervention, emotional and family support. All these are critically important, yet often lacking.

Your donations will directly fund the training and placement of Aortic Dissection Advanced Practitioners - specialist nurses focused on the holistic care of the Aorta. These nurses will provide much-needed follow-up services, lifestyle guidance, genetic counselling, and emotional support, ensuring patients and their families receive the care they deserve.

This will be a tough challenge - 3 days of cycling up the mountainous routes of Majorca used by the Pro Cycling legends to hone their fitness. The training 'plan' and preparatory suffering is well under way, but the legs are sure going to feel it. [It is not a holiday!]

If you can spare any cash, I will be eternally grateful for a donation, and 100% of your money will be going to a great cause that is close to my heart professionally and personally (pun slightly intended...)

Please visit the Aortic Dissection Charitable Trust website for more info on their great work:

https://aorticdissectioncharitabletrust.org