Isabel Marshall
Isabel's AVR Cycle September page
Fundraising for Multiple Sclerosis Society
Story
From the 1st - 30th September AVR London are attempting to cycle 2500km to raise money for a variety of wonderful charities (that's the equivalent of cycling the entire length of the country there and back, from Eastbourne on the South Coast to Dounreay at the top of Scotland!)
It sounds hideously cliche, but if someone had told me this time last year I would be cycling to work instead of commuting by train I would have laughed at them. At 28 I was nothing short of terrified of riding a bike, a foundation based on nothing more than a fear of the unknown. But then lockdown happened, and without a car, no public transport, I had no way to leave my immediate area, and I decided it was time for change. So my housemate kindly lent me her bike and my boyfriend ran along besides me as I practiced cycling for the first time since I was a small child. I fell over a few times, I sat in the park and cried, and I screamed extremely loudly the first time a van overtook me on the road. But you know what, THAT'S OKAY!
A few months on, I have my own pretty purple bike (like the real adult I am) and I absolutely love cycling. I feel energised when I get to work, my knees no longer hurt, and I feel fitter and happier than I ever have before, (and not to mention it's great for the environment!) so it was a no brainer to join AVR's cycle Septmember!
I'm raising money for the MS Society to support the wonderful work they undertake.
"We’re the MS Society.
Over 100,000 of us in the UK have MS. It’s unpredictable, and different for everyone. It’s often painful, exhausting and can cause problems with how we walk, move, see, think and feel. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
Whether you have MS, or care about someone who does, our community is here for you through the highs, lows and everything in between.
We understand what life’s like with MS. And together we are stronger. We’re researching, writing, campaigning and fighting. Running, walking, caring and talking.
Together, we are strong enough to stop MS."
My colleagues and I will be cycling to work, cycling at the weekend, and just anytime possible! I know it's been a hard year financially for so many people, but whatever people can spare will go to a wonderful cause. My colleagues have also picked some wonderful charities if you would like to support one of those too on our team page. And it goes without saying all cycle rides are open to friends and family!
Thank you all for taking the time to read my story.
Isabel x