By day I'm a scientist researching the genetics behind eye disease. Outside work I'm a keen cyclist. This year I'm combining my two passions by cycling the Etape du Tour to raise funds for Fight For Sight, a charity that funds two of my research projects into glaucoma and cataracts.

Fight For Sight (registered charity number 1111438) is the largest charity in the UK dedicated to funding research into a wide-range of eye conditions including macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataract, diabetic retinopathy as well as the causes of childhood blindness. 

The Etape du Tour is a stage of the Tour de France ridden by mere mortals a couple of days before the professions race it for real. This year the event is commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Pyrénées inclusion in the Tour de France. Starting in Pau the 181 km (112 miles) route includes three climbs: the Col de Marie-Blanque (1035 m), the Col du Soulor (1474 m), and finishes atop the imposing Tourmalet (2115 m).

That's a long way and a lot of climbing. Please support my exertions by sponsoring me and help me raise funds for research into eye disease!

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now.