In memory of my dad who passed away in October 2021, I will be cycling the London to Brighton bike ride for Ataxia UK on 11th September.

Ataxia is a debilitating neurological illness affecting around 10,000 people in the UK. It impacts balance, coordination, speech and many other aspects of daily life.

My dad was diagnosed with Cerebellar Ataxia in 2007 and in the following years presented with many challenges in performing the most basic of tasks. This included difficulty eating, walking and conversing which progressively worsened. The muscle wastage eventually lead to him being wheelchair bound, struggling to communicate and needing constant pain relief. 

Ataxia UK is a great charity offering support, particularly through the pandemic, to family’s like mine across the UK. They are the leading national charity for people affected by all types of Ataxia, funding research into finding treatments and cures. They also offer advice, information and support to people affected by the condition including speech therapy, helplines and support groups. Donating to this amazing charity will help to better understand this rare condition, assist families on how best to live with Ataxia and bring us one step closer to a cure. 

As a nod to my dads love of the Tour de France, I couldn’t think of a better way to raise money for Ataxia than tackling the marginally shorter distance of London to Brighton. Thank you to everyone that donates no matter how small, I am very appreciative ❤️

Octavia x