Challenge Completed! - 9th September

Made it! The length of the Outer Hebrides in one day. 185 miles in 17 hours 32 minutes.

We've managed to raise an incredible £10,008 after gift aid. That's enough to provide over 300 hours of dedicated support through Lymphoma Action's helpline alongside adding 5 new clinical trials to their Trialslink database.

Additionally, we've been able to fund 70 new places on the life saving stem-cell transplant list via Anthony Nolan.

The journey had plenty of ups and downs, both literally and figuratively!

I very much enjoyed flying along the southerly isles with the wind on my back, reaching 25 mph with little effort and taking in the carribean-esque beaches (It's not called Barrabados for nothing!). Couldn't be more in contrast with 15 hours later, soaked through and with 30 miles to go, when my bike lights decide to quit and I'm plunged into darkness, the wind and rain very much coming towards me. The only option left was for my dad in the trusty camper van to trail 10ft behind with the headlights guiding the way. The flashing beacon of the lighthouse in the distance was a welcome sight indeed. After reaching the Butt of Lewis at 0:59 am, which was very much living up to its reputation as the windiest place in the British Isles, it was time for a quick photo hosting the bike in the air before heading to Stornoway for the best nights sleep of my life.

A huge and final thank you to all 222 who have supported the challenge.

Update - 19th July

A massive thank you to everyone who has supported the challenge. Within a matter of weeks, we have smashed the target 3 times over.

With Calmac ferries having just released their timetables, I can confirm I'll be attempting the ride on one of the 7th, 8th or 9th September (giving me the best chance against the Hebridean weather).

A cycling jersey is currently being designed and will feature all those who have kindly donated.

Orignal Post - 22 June

2 weeks ago, my sister Iona received a diagnosis of Hodgkin's lymphoma, a form of blood cancer. Whilst I can't help her medically, a chance to support charities who support those in the most challenging of times is something to jump at.

Throughout lockdown, I've been out on my bike each day and thought I could turn a daily activity into making a difference. 2 weeks ago, I hadn't cycled much further than 20 miles so I've been a bit adventurous in aiming for the Hebrides at 185 as soon as it's safe to do so. Better start training!

The two charities I've selected are Lymphoma Action and Anthony Nolan

Lymphoma Action offers key information and support groups to those affected and has proven invaluable in the first few weeks after diagnosis.

Anthony Nolan gives people with blood cancer a second chance at treatment through its stem cell register.

Any donations big or small are greatly appreciated, bringing us one step closer to the target of £2100 which is the number of people diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma each year in the UK.