Hello everyone, firstly, if you've got this far then thank you for taking the time to read this story. On the 17th of June 2021, my cousin Joanne sadly passed away from a brave battle with adrenal cancer, 17 days before I was due to complete the 60-mile cycle from Manchester to Blackpool for what would have been the first time. The money raised was due to send Joanne, her husband and 2 children to London, but sadly we never had the chance, and each donation instead went to the incredible Christie Charity.

Fast forward 3 years, on Saturday the 2nd of November, I will complete the 96-kilometre bike ride for the 4th time, starting in Salford Quays and finishing below the iconic Glitterball on Blackpool's South Promenade. The next day, on Sunday 3rd November, I will also return from Blackpool and finish at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust in Manchester, calculating just short of 200km in 24 hours.

Together, we have raised £9832 in 3 bike rides. There isn't a single person who could have convinced me of this possibility when I first signed up for this event. The special occasion this year is that Joanne would have been 40 and celebrating her birthday on the 15th November. The reason for such a specific target of £5168 is that it will take us to the £15,000 fundraising mark, and by achieving this, a bronze leaf, engraved with Joanne's name, will be placed on The Tree of Hope. The Tree of Hope is located in the garden at The Christie and can be visited throughout the year and is a lasting way for family and friends to remember and celebrate the life of their loved one.

The Christie is the largest single-site cancer centre in Europe and the first UK centre to be accredited as a comprehensive cancer centre. They treat more than 60,000 patients a year, and Joanne often described The Christie as her "safe haven". Unfortunately, it is very difficult to walk into a room these days and come across a person who hasn't been touched by cancer in one way or another, therefore highlighting the importance of raising money to support this incredible charity.

Any donation, small or big, is hugely appreciated. Thank you again for taking the time to read this story, there's only one thing left to do...

Saving lives. Making breakthroughs. Holding hands. Wiping tears. Lifting spirits. Raising funds. Ringing bells. Beating cancer.

JP x