In February, we found out that Dad had stage IV metastatic cancer. This surprised us all, not least because he had very recently completed three solo elite endurance cycles (spanning the length of the country), and raising thousands of pounds for our local Children’s Hospice. Shortly after he went into acute liver failure, and was given a prognosis of possible weeks to live.

Three months down the line, my Dad is just finishing his first batch of Chemotherapy/ Immunotherapy, and is the living embodiment of making every day count.

My dad is being looked after by Velindre Cancer Centre, who provide treatment, support and hope to thousands of families across South Wales. The sad irony is that Velindre is where my grandmother spent her last days when my father was my age.

I will be taking part in a 40mile 'Head to the Hills' charity cycle from Velindre to the Brecon Beacons on 12th June (headed up by Shane Williams). Those who know me well, will know that this is my idea of hell, but pales in comparison to the hell facing the scores of families being told one of their loved ones has cancer every day. 

Please help me in supporting this amazing charity - your money will help fund continued research to make cancer a liveable condition, and provide support to families during such a horrible time. I am so grateful for any donation, however small!

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Velindre is recognised as The Hospital Of Hope, and this is made possible because of the fantastic and committed support of our donors and fundraisers. Your fundraising efforts and donations help us continue to be the leading provider of radiotherapy and other specialised anti-cancer treatments in Wales. It allows us to fund projects which improve the experience and outcomes of patients receiving care and support here.With your support, we are able to offer better quality of care through complex treatment pathways, earlier access to cutting edge treatments, research into new treatments, purchase specialist equipment, fund invaluable support services and resources along with ensuring our staff have access to the most up to date training and techniques available.It really is difficult to overstate the difference fundraising makes here at Velindre, but the benefits are invaluable.