In July this year I will be flying from New Zealand and will be cycling the length of the UK from John O’Groats to Lands End to raise money for a charity close to my heart, 2Wish. 2Wish offers immediate and ongoing support for families, friends and professionals affected by the sudden loss of a young person, including memory boxes, counselling sessions, debriefs and respite care just to name a few.

After the loss of my nephew Ryan in 2019, 2Wish were there to help my sister and brother in law and their family through their grief. This goes without mentioning the sudden loss of the young men in Bargoed in recent years, and the effect it has had on the community. It’s a situation no one wants to be in, but it is invaluable having charities like this available to those going through the worst time of their lives.

This year in November, I turn 60 - 5 days before what would have been Ryan’s 26th birthday, and I want to mark this occasion to remember Ryan and my friends in Bargoed who have experienced the loss of their much loved sons.

So the cycling shorts are out, the helmet is on and I’ve made it my mission to cycle the 1077 miles across the UK over 14 days to raise as much money and awareness for 2Wish. I will be posting my progress regularly on Facebook so you can all keep up to date with my training and journey.

Please share where you can, and any donation is greatly appreciated #2wish #ForRyan

2wish provides immediate bereavement support for families, individuals and professionals who have suddenly and traumatically lost a child or young adult aged 25 years and under.

When a family loses a child or young adult the effects are devastating for all who knew and loved them. It is important that support is available if and when required.

It is important families know that they are not alone and that the feelings they are experiencing are often normal.