The Joshua Tree, a Cheshire and North Wales based charity dedicated to supporting the emotional well-being and mental health of families affected by childhood cancers, is excited to unveil an upcoming fundraising event. A 240-mile, multi-stage cycle ride from the giraffes at London Zoo to the giraffes at Chester Zoo, all to raise crucial funds and awareness of the charity’s services.
To mark Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the cycling event is set to take place from September 13-15, 2024. The 14 riders taking part include beneficiaries of the charity, support riders and TV doctor Dr. Hussain Al-Zubaidi who will be joining the ride to help raise awareness of childhood cancers.
Each rider brings personal experiences to this inspiring journey, driving their determination to complete the ride and unite them in a shared purpose; to thank The Joshua Tree for their support during their family’s cancer diagnosis and raise awareness of how the charity can support others going through a similar trauma.
Alistair, one of the riders, shares his story, “Our youngest son was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in November 2021. After a very difficult first 12 months, he has made amazing progress but the impact on our family has been immense. Our boys have received play therapy and counselling through The Joshua Tree helping them deal with the traumatic events they have experienced.”
“It’s a privilege to be able to join this ride to help The Joshua Tree be able to continue to support families like ours.
Harry, an 8-year-old from Cheshire, is one of the many amazing children supported by The Joshua Tree along with their families. Despite living with leukaemia, Harry remains an enthusiastic Liverpool FC fan and a caring, generous boy, recognised for his positive attitude. The Joshua Tree continues to play a significant role in Harry's journey, as well as his little sister Olivia, who receives sibling support to care for her wellbeing.
Their Dad, Craig, explains, “Things don’t necessarily get easier over time, more that you learn to understand and engage with the support around you to live with cancer in a way that works for your child and the family. The Joshua Tree plays an important role in our support system and is why I want to help them in the way that I can, through this ride.
The inspiration for the ride came from Harry’s little sister, Olivia, who said to her dad, "Daddy, why don’t you ride your bike to feed the giraffes to say thank you?" And so, the challenge began. Harry and Olivia's Dad, Craig, has been working tirelessly behind the scenes, alongside The Joshua Tree team, to set up this incredible fundraising event and lay the foundations for the ride.
“While the ride is certainly a formidable challenge, it pales in comparison to the monumental journey children must undertake when confronted with a cancer diagnosis,” says Craig.
Starting at London Zoo and finishing at Chester Zoo, the ride will be divided into three exhilarating stages:
Stage 1 (September 13th): London Zoo to Towcester (80 miles, 8 hours)
Stage 2 (September 14th): Towcester to Burton Upon Trent (80 miles, 7 hours)
Stage 3 (September 15th): Burton Upon Trent to Chester Zoo (80 miles, 7 hours)
Why the Giraffes?
The giraffe, a silent yet majestic creature, holds a special place in The Joshua Tree’s logo. It symbolises the child, who has no voice or say in being affected by cancer. This unique mascot highlights the charity's commitment to giving a voice to those who need it most.
The Heart of The Joshua Tree
Founded in 2006 by Lynda and David Hill, The Joshua Tree was established after their son was diagnosed with cancer, exposing a critical lack of support services for all family members during such a traumatic time.
Over the years, the charity has become an essential part of the community, providing bespoke support programmes to over 600 families (equating to more than 2,400 individuals) across Cheshire, North West England, and North Wales.
At the core of The Joshua Tree’s operations is the purpose-built Support Centre near Northwich, opened in 2021. This facility offers a much-needed sanctuary for families experiencing childhood cancers, featuring a multi-functional activity room, counselling suites, soft play and sensory equipment, an outdoor play area, and landscaped gardens as well as a large open kitchen dining area perfect for gathering. The centre caters to children of all ages as well as their parents and grandparents, providing a safe and supportive environment.
The donations from the Giraffe to Giraffe ride will make a significant impact on the lives of families affected by childhood cancers. Here’s how contributions can help:
£50: One counselling or therapy session for a family member.
£500: One activity event for families at the centre.
£2,000: Year-long counselling support for a child living with cancer.
£5,000: Comprehensive support for a beneficiary family throughout their time with The Joshua Tree.
£25,000: Funds a Family Support Worker at The Joshua Tree for one year.
Richard Driffield, CEO at The Joshua Tree said: “Our upcoming 240-mile cycling event is more than just a fundraiser; it celebrates the resilience of the families we support and raises awareness of those affected by childhood cancers. I am proud The Joshua Tree continues to make a real difference for families, it is an honour to support them, and we do all we can to help during the demanding journey of cancer treatment. Thank you to everyone involved in organising the cycle, we are excited for it and invite you all to join us in making a profound difference.”
Thank you to all the support!
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