My good friend Gareth was forced to give up a high flying career in Asia to return to the UK and fight his leukaemia. The amazing work of Anthony Nolan was crucial to ensuring Gareth is with us today. AN found a match that was the key to the stem cell transplant that saved Gareth's life. His determination to survive during his long period of treatment remains an inspiration to everyone that knows him. The professionals at the Marsden provided fantastic care and were, on several occasions, genuinely surprised that Gareth had pulled through. It was a close run thing. The only thing we know about Gareth's donor is that he was from Germany (Gareth's punctuality is much improved but his beer and sausage consumption is still not up to German standards!!). 

I am proud to call Gareth my friend and am extremely grateful to AN (and others of course) that we are still able to enjoy time together. The Ride London 100 mile event is more than double the distance I have ever ridden before. But by completing this challenge I hope to help AN achieve its goal of ensuring that everyone who needs a stem cell transplant gets one. Thank you everyone for your support!