Nystagmus is a form of visual impairment - which I have, characterised by wobbling or flickering of the eyes, from side to side, up and down or round and round. It can affect the ability to focus, judge speed and depth and recognise faces.

The Nystagmus Network is a registered charity - focused (for want of a better word)  on the condition - which was founded by my mum 36 years ago. The charity provides advice, support and information to people living with nystagmus and their families, an educational advocacy service and benefits advice, training for teaching staff and eye care professionals. It also supports a thriving medical research community, making progress with the condition, both in the UK and overseas.The charity is always looking for volunteers...  Read more about it @ www.nystagmusnetwork.org

It's an extraordinary and invaluable organisation and has been a huge source of strength for me and countless others in good times and - perhaps more importantly, when working out the challenges that life with the condition can throw up. Put simply, I simply would not have the life I have today, without this charity and the strength it has given me to press on.

In order to continue to do its invaluable work, the charity needs support and so begins my journey across the Scottish wilderness in June 2021....  This is something of a team effort as the charity's invaluable Chairman has even agreed to drive the support car for much of the journey - thank you Tim!!

The route I'm taking on is the North Coast 500 cycle ride which is comprised of just over 500 miles of stunning (and fairly hilly) coastal scenery, following the coastal edges of the North Highlands of Scotland, taking in the regions of Wester Ross, Sutherland, Caithness, Easter Ross, the Black Isle and Inverness-Shire. It includes one of the greatest climbs in Britain - Bealach-Na-Ba.... starting from near sea-level it rises 626m over 9.1km of uphill. I'll be averaging around 70 miles a day come rain or shine. 

Throughout the latter stages of 2020 I'll be heading out training hard for this ride in the UK and also - COVID permitting - on the continent. I will post pictures and updates as I go.

 It's def the most challenging fundraiser I've taken and suspect there will be some nerves as I sit in the departure lounge at Gatwick Airpot one June evening next year, but it will def be an adventure!! 

Your support is much appreciated