Story
As many of you reading this will know, I like a bit of a challenge. This year, some friends and I are taking on Britain's most iconic cycling route, from the most southerly tip of England in Land's End, to Scotland's most Northerly mainland town, John O' Groats. In total we'll cover 1000 miles (1600km) and climb 66000ft (20,000m) - two times the height of Mt. Everest!! And we'll do this in 10 days!!
While digging deep, swearing and blinding my way up and over the all the lumps and bumps of Cornwall, the Yorkshire Dales or The Scottish Highlands it'll be good motivation to know I'm doing it all for a great cause and one close to my family's heart.
St Barnabas House is a charity based in Worthing which provides palliative and end of life care to adults with life-limiting illnesses.
When my Dad Frank was diagnosed with cancer in 2019 and told he'd have just 6 weeks to live, the staff at St. Barnabas House stepped in to ensure those last weeks could be spent at home, as comfortably as possible. More than looking after Dad's physical care needs, they were also there for Mum as her world was being ripped apart.
The support and care they provided went above and beyond anything we could expect and I'd love it if you could help me fund this amazing charity and all the work they do for others who find themselves or loved one in similar situations.
Please donate what you can. Here's an idea of what you donation may mean to someone else:
- £148 will provide a whole day of care for a patient at home, giving carers a well-earned break.
- £35 will give a patient time with a physiotherapist, helping them to keep mobile for as long as possible.
- £68.35 means that someone can receive specialist advice from a Community Palliative Care Nurse at home
- £250 means that bereaved relatives can come together for a social evening and get support from others who have suffered a loss.
- £625 could pay for a patient to spend their last day at the hospice, ensuring they are as comfortable as possible and loved ones have the chance to say goodbye.
It would mean lots to me, and every pound raised is that extra little bit of mental fuel to help power my legs up the country. Oh... and greater dignity and support for those going through the worst days of their lives. That's probably the more important bit.