In July 2024, a team of 9 individuals, including 6 riders and 3 support crew, will embark on the iconic Lands’ End to John O’Groats (LEJOG) 1000-mile route over 10 consecutive days. Led by seasoned cyclist and former Royal Marine Martin ‘Bogey’ Knights, the team comprises former Royal Marines and civilians with varying cycling abilities and experience, ranging from novice to senior club riders, with ages spanning from 28 to a sprightly 65.

The team, motivated by personal connections to kidney disease and dementia, has chosen to support Kidney Care UK, RMA-The Royal Marines Charity, and Dementia UK. Their goal is to raise funds and awareness for these amazing charities, aiming for a provisional target of £4000.

Below are brief for each charity.

Kidney Care UK

For over four decades, Kidney Care UK has been a leading advocate for individuals battling kidney disease. Established in 1975 as the British Kidney Patients Association by founder Elizabeth Ward OBE, the organization initially aimed to enhance the quality of life for kidney patients. From pioneering campaigns for donor cards to ongoing efforts in support, representation, and advocacy, Kidney Care UK has remained dedicated to those affected by kidney disease. They offer practical, emotional, and financial support, collaborate with healthcare professionals to enhance services, and advocate for systemic change. Their advocacy spans across all demographics, from the young to the elderly, assisting families and loved ones alike. Kidney Care UK also addresses the financial aspect, highlighting that 3% of the NHS budget is allocated to kidney failure services. Moreover, they shed light on the approximate costs associated with kidney transplants, emphasizing the ongoing financial burden patients may face.

RMA - The Royal Marine Charity

In 2021, RMA-The Royal Marines Charity commemorated its 75th anniversary, tracing its roots back to the establishment of the Royal Marines Association (RMA) in 1946. Following World War II, the Royal Marines Old Comrades Association (RMOCA) thrived in port cities, offering camaraderie and support. However, the demobilization of 80% of the 77,000 Royal Marines presented a significant employment challenge. In early 1946, spurred by Lt Col Nicol Gray and Col Paine, the RMA was formed after an initial meeting on November 27, 1945.

RMA-The Royal Marines Charity vision is to provide lifelong support to the Royal Marines Family, reflecting the ethos that once a Royal Marine, always a Royal Marine.

Mission:

- Enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness of the Royal Marines

- Sustain and promote traditions and esprit de corps, and commemorate fallen comrades

- Provide support, advice, and friendship to serving and retired Royal Marines, their families, and those with close ties to the Corps

- Generate resources, benefits, and employment opportunities to ensure comprehensive charitable support throughout life

Ethos:

- Uphold Commando Values: Excellence, Integrity, Self-Discipline, and Humility

- Embody Commando Spirit: Courage, Determination, Unselfishness, and Cheerfulness

- Foster the Commando Mindset: First to understand, first to adapt and respond, first to overcome

Dementia UK

Dementia UK are the specialist dementia nursing charity that is there for the whole family.

Dementia UK understands that dementia affects not only the individual diagnosed but also their loved ones. That's why access to specialist advice and support is crucial for families and friends. Living with dementia brings daily challenges and can be overwhelming, leading to isolation for caregivers.

Admiral Nurses, Dementia UK's specialist nurses, offer free tailored support to families. They provide practical tips, emotional assistance, and future planning guidance, helping families navigate the complexities of dementia. Whether through the helpline, clinics, or community outreach, Admiral Nurses offer a lifeline to families nationwide.

Dementia UK is committed to expanding the number of Admiral Nurses across the UK, ensuring every affected family can receive support when they need it.

Why Admiral Nursing?

Admiral Nurses were named by the family of Joseph Levy CBE BEM, who founded the charity. Joseph had vascular dementia and was known affectionately as “Admiral Joe” because of his love of sailing.

SKCIN

Skcin focuses on raising awareness through education, promoting prevention and early detection, campaigning for change.

Since gaining charitable status in 2006, Skcin have learned a great deal. Our countless meetings, seminars, partnerships, initiatives, campaigns, national and international conferences and parliamentary activities, combined with our relationships with medical professionals, skin cancer specialists, other UK charities and organisations has resulted in a well-rounded depth of experience and knowledge that lead us to more precisely define our key objectives and ultimate goals.

As a result, Skcin firmly believe that in order to reverse the soaring rates of skin cancer, education on a national level is paramount. By targeting key higher risk groups via bespoke initiatives, we cannot only work toward the prevention of over 80% of all skin cancer cases, but also promote the vital early detection of the disease.