I never met Jo Cox - she was an MP for just a year when she was murdered in 2016. In July, I’m cycling on the Jo Cox Way ride from Yorkshire to London (288 miles over 5 days). There are so many reasons this feels personal to me:

I am the current president of the Medical Women’s Federation – we aim to encourage women doctors to excel, to reduce sexism and harassment and to improve the nation’s health. I led on a report called ‘Exercise the miracle cure’ – cycling and walking make people healthier (by over 30%) and happier and reduce demand on the NHS and social care. Five years ago, I was diagnosed with myeloma (a blood cancer) and some heart failure (cardiac amyloidosis). I credit getting through a stem cell transplant to getting an electric-bike to do my daily “dose” as well as to our amazing NHS. I'm doin gthe ride on an e-bike. I’m back at work as a surgeon part-time. I also write a column in the British Medical Journal – mostly on how to fix the NHS! (Link at https://www.scarlettmcnally.co.uk). We each only get one unique and precious life. The Jo Cox Foundation https://www.jocoxfoundation.org/ is about connecting people, including projects to reduce loneliness, support women in leadership, encourage respect, build communities, promote better behaviours and value each person. This is across all political parties, organisations and individuals. We really do have #moreincommon. I hate asking people for money! But we all get serotonin and oxytocin from doing a good deed, being part of something and having fun (and exercise)! So, please, give any donation.

Thank you!