On Saturday 30th May 2015 at 22:00, I'll be one of 2,500 cyclists taking part in 'Ride the Night', the UK's one and only women's night cycle event from Windsor Racecourse, through London and back again to raise awareness and funds for breast, cervical and ovarian cancers.   

I decided I had to do something after my dear friend and neighbour Lesley lost her courageous battle against ovarian cancer on 8th January 2015.

After everything I've gone through, I'm determined to rise to this challenge. 

After an almost fatal cycling accident in 2008, I am left without a spleen and a depleted immune system. Sadly this means I need regular injections, daily medication and have to carry a warning card alerting medical professionals of my susceptibility to overwhelming infection, especially pneumococcal meningitis. I then had another cycling accident in January and have been diagnosed with adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder).  Thankfully, a long lasting steroid injection has enabled me to successfully complete all of my training.

As many of you will already know, I'm not one for giving in easily so please wish me luck and send me on my way with a donation.

I’m sure we have all lost a loved one or know of someone fighting this cruel disease.  Hopefully, what I and all the other cyclists are about to embark on this weekend WILL make a massive difference to lots of women out there.

Sleep peacefully Lesley, it'll be a tough ride but this one's for you xxx

Thank you for your support.

Denise x