In February 2020, I got the news that a member of my immediate family had been diagnosed with motor neurone disease, or MND (also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)).

The global pandemic has only added to the difficulties around the diagnosis, with essential NHS services and support being severely restricted because of COVID lockdowns, and the fact none of us can travel internationally to be together right now.

The ‘My Name'5 Doddie Foundation’ is a brilliant charity, set up by former Scotland rugby international Doddie Weir, who was himself diagnosed with MND a few years ago. (Doddie played in the second row as a Lock, which is where the '5' comes from in the foundation's name.) The foundation is committed to help find a cure for MND and support fellow sufferers, and has been an invaluable resource to help me to understand more about MND.

When I heard about ‘Doddie’5 Ride 2021’ in the Scottish Borders, I immediately decided to sign up, even if I had to do it remotely (at least an Australian winter is comparable to a Scottish summer, weatherwise!).

On Sunday 4 July, the same day as the event in Scotland, I’ll be riding 60 miles / 96km, and more than 3,400ft / 1,000m elevation gain, around the Northern Beaches of Sydney to raise money for the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation. 

***UPDATE***

Due to COVID restrictions in Scotland not easing as quickly as anticipated, the official event in the Borders has now been pushed back until Sunday 8 August. Some of the event merchandise I've ordered - such as a very fetching blue & yellow tartan cycling jersey - has also been delayed, so I've also made the decision to postpone my ride until 8 August when I still hope to be joining the many fundraisers, and do my cycle from afar. 

I’m not doing it to beat a time, but the distance - and hills - will be challenge enough! 

It would mean the world to me to have the support of family and friends around the world!