A LYMM man who lost an eye while battling a rare form of cancer for three years has completed an 800-mile epic journey to thank the medics who have fought to keep him alive – and hopes to raise £20,000.
Graeme Heward, aged 53 and his two sons, Elliot and Sam, cycled between and then climbed the highest peaks of each of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
They completed the epic journey in 11 days and arrived back at The Christie in Manchester half an hour ahead of schedule.
The event, ‘Facing Challenges Together’, has raised over £16,000 so far with the amount being split equally between The Christie and MacMillan Cancer Support. The team climbed a height greater than that of Mount Everest during the trip despite the disappointment of being unable to reach the summit of Snowdon due to adverse weather conditions. They hope to raise a total of £20,000.
The team were joined for the initial 80 miles of the trip by Professor Jarrod Homer, consultant head and neck surgeon at Manchester Royal Infirmary and The Christie, Graeme’s main consultant throughout the three years.
Graeme said “The hills were as steep as any I have cycled anywhere, including the Alps. It was a real struggle at times. In the first few days, the weather was against us, but it did improve.
“I know lots of people who are fighting cancer as I am and when it was difficult on the hills, I thought about them and it kept me going. There were times when I was exhausted and cold, but I battled through it. There was no way I was going to give up.
“The most spectacular cycling was along the lochs in Scotland and in the Lake District. It was beautiful. It is something the three of us can look back on and will talk about for years to come.”
Graeme, who will soon undergo further surgery, added: “My challenge now is not to accept any more challenges. I’m extremely grateful for all the support we have received and would like to thank all the people who donated.”
To make donations visit www.facingchallengestogether.co.uk
Pictures show Graeme and his sons on his travels and with the support team at Christies.
Graeme's epic journey set to to raise £20,000
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About Author
Gary Skentelbery
Experienced journalist for more than 40 years. Managing Director of magazine publishing group with three in-house titles and on-line daily newspaper for Warrington. Experienced writer, photographer, PR consultant and media expert having written for local, regional and national newspapers. Specialties: PR, media, social networking, photographer, networking, advertising, sales, media crisis management. Chair of Warrington Healthwatch Director Warrington Chamber of Commerce Patron Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Trustee Warrington Disability Partnership. Former Chairman of Warrington Town FC.
