Donald King

(i)  3 years ago today my Dad died from cancer. He smoked somewhere between 10 - 25+ cigarettes a day for something like 70 years and it came as no surprise to us that he developed cancer.  Everyone who new my Dad said he was a true Gentleman and he would help anyone at any time.  On today, and on other days I think of Dad and reflect on the good times we had together and also wish that I had done more for him, helped him more, not said some of the things to him and also wished that the unspoken words had been said.  He leaves a big empty space in out life that can never be filled but we are thankful for the time we had together.  I wish I was more like him and much more considerate and understanding of others - I aim to be like him but in reality I do not come close.

When I was young we had a great time - did not have loads of money but had a loving family which is something money can not buy. 

Penny Brohn charity teaches people how to help themselves and to change the way they live with cancer.  They provide not just help to the person diagnosed but to their loved ones as well.  Dad would have fully supported this concept.

(ii)  Janet Walker died from cancer last year and although I never met her she has certainly inspired me and this is what is driving me to complete this cycle.

Although suffering from cancer Janet continued to run a home, care for her son Dominic and keep husband Sam in check!  This loving family managed to do so much in the short time they had together and Janet even managed to keep working as a Nurse, dedicated to caring for others at a time when she was very ill.  

St Annes Hospice looked after Janet in her final days and it is fitting that Sam wants to help them.  They need a staggering £16,000 per day to continue helping others.

Both these reasons are why I am cycling for charity and they are both cancer charities.  I know their are many other deserving charities and good causes but I am sure you understand why I have selected my two.

We should all periodically reflect on what we are doing with our life, are we happy, do we help family and friends and are we a good role model for youngsters?  If not we need to start making life choices that will help us to become a better human being - it will not be easy and it will take some of us longer than others - the key is taking the first small step.

I am taking the bike into the cycle shop in Dursley today to get the bearings replaced and I will keep you updated on progress.