Published 6 November 2024     More in

Myself and my Dad (Stewart) took part in the fantastic London to Amsterdam cycle challenge back in 2019. We did this cycle in honour of my Nan, and my dad’s mum, Judy Sharp who spent her final weeks at St Christopher’s now 20 years ago.

At the time neither of us were great cyclists so this was a great challenge to truly test ourselves physically and mentally.

We found the fundraising extremely eye opening having spent hours outside Bromley South train station bucket collecting in the freezing cold. Dad had a particular encounter of generosity that stuck in his mind. A kind lady went out of her way to go and get him a coffee, a small act that meant a lot that day.

The cycle itself, I would describe in one phrase as, ‘life changing’. The other cyclists all had their own stories and relationship to the hospice and it was incredible hearing of the strength of every single person.

None of this would have been possible without the support and motivation of the fabulous Fiona and Jo. They are truly sensational and made every part of the challenge enjoyable (well maybe not day 2 when we were cycling into the wind for hours!).

Doing this challenge with my Dad was an experience I’ll never forget and will cherish forever. It’s something we will have in common for the rest of our lives and all the while we had helped raise vital funds for such a wonderful organisation.

“My advice would be, just sign up, I have memories for life that I’ll now always associate with my Nan.”

I can’t say I’ve continued cycling but as a family we’re always been super keen to get involved and fundraise for St Christopher’s wherever we can.

My sister Lizzie completed the London Marathon in Nannie’s name and in aid of St Christopher’s earlier this year!

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