A new year, a new challenge. In the autumn I was looking for a challenge, a challenge that would allow me to give back to a charity who had supported me and then an opportunity arose – The Prudential Ride London-Surrey 100.
Ride London-Surrey 100 is a 100 mile cycle sportive around London and Surrey. One of the key parts to making this a special sportive is the fact it’s held on closed roads. Normal sportives are usually held on public roads where as well as riding with others, you have to be constantly aware of traffic, especially when overtaking riders and riding in groups. The ability to ride on closed roads means riding like it’s a race and an experience I have dreamed of. Rob and I have talked about doing this in the past, but never really thought it would be a possibility. However, this was until I saw Crohn’s and Colitis UK had charity places.
After some discussions with my wife, I signed up pledging to raise money for a great cause and trying to work out how to get my fitness up to cycling 100 miles in a day. I have 2 close friends joining me: Rob and Chris. Rob is another teacher from the 1st school I worked in, he is a great guy whose friendship is invaluable. He repeatedly visited me in hospital and then again when I was at home. He is a fab friend and we often catch up over on a ride or over coffee, or both. Chris is someone I have known for years, I have raced against him, with him, cycled alongside him in mega rides around Devon and he was an usher at my wedding. He is always there at the end of the phone and someone who I can always rely on to give a calm and calculated opinion. My first long ride after surgery was with him, so it was a no brainer to have him join me.
Crohn’s and Colitis UK are the UK’s leading charity on raising the awareness of Crohn’s and Colitis, supporting those who have been diagnosed, or on their way to a diagnosis, stand up for the rights of sufferers as well as funding important research.
After I was diagnosed, I didn’t know where to turn. Crohn’s and Colitis UK provided key information on what ulcerative colitis was and how it affected me. They pointed me in the direction of good advice regarding nutrition and diet to improve my symptoms. Clearly explained the medication I was taking and possible side affects, as well as laying out alternative options.
So I now am asking for help to raise as much money as possible for this amazing charity. I have set up a just giving page to raise funds for my team: Titanium Legs and we are aiming to raise over £2000. Please support us by donating to this great charity.
My life with a stoma bag 