Four middle aged, Middle Weight chaps are participating in this years Etape Caledonia cycling through 85 Miles of Scottish Hills on Sunday 14th May 2023 to hopefully raise money for the wonderful Macmillan Cancer Support who are supporting our buddy James, here is his story…

On October 15th 2022, I was making my way to Portman Road to watch Ipswich Town; a normal Saturday afternoon but on this occasion it came with an unanticipated twist. I felt some discomfort in my right armpit and upon checking the area, I found what could only be described as a golf ball sized lump. My partner Amber immediately dragged me to get examined by my Doctor and within 47 days, I had received some news I never thought I’d hear. I was diagnosed with Low Grade Non-Hodgkin Follicular Lymphoma which is a cancer of the lymphatic system. Tests confirmed that I was stage 4 at the time of diagnosis; meaning that the cancer is incurable but something that can be managed through various treatments. My treatment plan is already underway. I am scheduled to have six cycles of chemotherapy in total which should be concluded in June / July all being well.

Macmillan do a fantastic job helping everyone with cancer live life as fully as they can, by providing physical, financial & emotional support. Already, they’ve been amazing to me personally and provided hands on support answering all the questions I’ve thrown their way. It’s a fantastic organisation which has always had a special place in my heart; my Mum lost her battle to cancer back in 2007 and yet again, Macmillan done a remarkable job supporting my family throughout her fight.

so Dig deep and don't forget to gift aid it.. We are completely self-funding this trip, so any money donated goes straight to Macmillan - definitely no expenses claims!

Derek,Piers,Bozza and Simon