Jonathan Hawkins
Jonathan's South Downs Way Century Charity Fundraiser
Fundraising for The Olive Tree Cancer Support Centre
Story
Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.
I will be taking on the ultimate challenge of cycling the full 101 miles of the South Downs Way Century organised by Trail Break. This event is a monumental ride, recognised as a right of passage, for many cyclists.
I took this challenge on, in 2020. I managed to complete the ride in 15 hours and 46 minutes, a huge personal achievement. This left me with more motivation to attempt the challenge again, to beat my time, and raise money for the Olive Tree, an independent, self-funding charity. The training this time is much more intense, as the event needs to be completed within 14 hours.
Why the Olive Tree?
The Olive Tree provided support for my wife Charlotte, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013. She was only 38 at the time of diagnosis, we had three young children, the news was devastating. Not only did they support Charlotte, but they also support, me, and found a counsellor for our youngest child, who was only 4 years old at the time. Charlotte has since survived two brain tumours, and continues to live life well, with the support of the Olive Tree, family and a friends. Her most recent challenge is the treatment Charlotte has been on since 2013, has now started to damage her heart. Charlotte's oncology team at the Royal Marsden, have referred her to The Royal Brompton, to investigate this further.
The Olive Tree, provide services such as, one to one counselling, complementary therapies, exercise classes and workshops, FREE of charge, for anyone who has been affected by cancer, in and around Horsham and Crawley. It is a lifeline for many, and needs constant financial support, as it is a self-funding charity, and relies on donations to continue the support they provide.
Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.