June Grinstead

June's Caledonian Way Cycle

Fundraising for Chestnut Tree House Children's Hospice
£978
raised of £1,500 target
Donations cannot currently be made to this page
The Caledonia Way, 17 June 2021
We provide children's hospice care to children and families across Sussex

Story

My story began with a car accident when I was 17 and it changed my life.  Years of depression and multiple operations followed until 2004 when I was 33 and I had my lower leg amputated.  By then I thought I was mentally prepared for what was coming, but never expected to still be left with a lifetime of pain.

By early 2020 the pain was becoming debilitating because of a viscous circle of lack of movement causing more pain.  However, with my daughters shut at home because of COVID, with nothing else to do but exercising, I started doing just little bits with them and eventually I could do a bit more, for a little longer.

I learnt more about electric bikes and feeling more positive I thought that it just might work for me, and I'd be able to see more of my local area, as walking restricts me and won't ever go away.  Within 3 weeks I was doing so well I wanted to set myself a challenge and considering I can't put much force behind the peddle, I've really gone for it!

I will be cycling the Caledonian Canal in the Highlands, 65 miles over 3 days.

I’ve always love Scotland, but unless I was in a car I couldn't see the best bits, until now!  Myself, my Husband Martin and our Frenchie Harley will be cycling from Fort William to Inverness, along 3 Lochs including Loch Ness and hoping not to see any monsters!  The steepest climb is 12% gradient right in the middle of the route and there is no way I can get off and walk so I have no choice, I must ride to get to the collection point.  For Martins challenge, he will be escorting a 17 kilo Harley in a backpack.  Harley will just sit back and enjoy the ride.

What kept me going over the years was being grateful for the things I can do now, and the life I had until the accident.  So many children miss out on the privileges I’ve had, many do not get to dance into the early hours like I did.  Raising money for Chestnut, who give children and their families more opportunities for smiles and fun, when they most need it, its the least I can do.  Making memories is what I focus on now and I love that Chestnut give families the chance to make more too.


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About the charity

Chestnut Tree House is the children’s hospice for East Sussex, West Sussex, Brighton and Hove and South East Hampshire, caring for 300 children and young adults from 0-19 years of age every year, both at the hospice and in families’ own homes.

Donation summary

Total raised
£977.81
Online donations
£977.81
Offline donations
£0.00

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