Losing a loved one is a painful heartache. Gemma Towell lost two special friends to cancer, with another friend currently in remission. Rather than dwell, Gemma’s decided to do something positive, and raise money in their honour.
Gemma, a mum from Cowling, will be cycling an incredible 10,000 miles this year with the aim of raising over £10,000 for chronic illness charity, Beefy’s Foundation.
The challenge follows a testing three years for Gemma after seeing three of her friends and work colleagues battle with cancer. Gemma explains: “I was heartbroken to see the suffering and pain of all three of my friends and their families. I just felt helpless, all I could do was stand by and watch.”
“I began the fund-raising shortly after David and Phil passed away, and it has just spiralled since then. Each year I try to think of bigger and better challenges I can do to raise more money.” – Gemma Towell
Rather than do nothing, Gemma decided to channel her feelings and emotions into doing something positive and raising money by cycling great lengths all over the UK. One of which being a Land’s End – John O’Groats solo ride, starting on July 25th.
Gemma has set herself the solo challenge which she aims to complete in just 8 days. Having already undertaken a number of serious rides this year, Gemma has been fully supported by the cycle-wear guys at Fat Lad at the Back who have provided essential kit and experience to help her along the way.
The mammoth solo ride will take Gemma from one end of the country, to the other. There are various routes she can take, but all will be undulating and lengthy with roughly 1000miles of cycling.
To support Gemma on her admirable challenge, visit her Just Giving page and see how you can get involved.
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