<div><strong>Kicking On – A Story of Survival, Gratitude, and Giving Back</strong>
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<div>Earlier this year, I faced something I never imagined I’d have to: open-heart surgery. After I was diagnosed with severe coronary artery disease. Within weeks I was in hospital undergoing a triple heart bypass. The procedure saved my life.
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<div>Waking up in recovery, tubes in my chest and a line of stitches across my sternum, I felt an overwhelming mix of fear, relief, and gratitude. The journey since then has been physically and emotionally tough—long days of cardiac rehab, slowly rebuilding strength, and confronting the fragility of life. But it’s also been filled with moments of unexpected kindness, humour, and hope.
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<div>That’s why I’ve decided to raise money for two causes that are close to my heart—literally and figuratively:
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<div><strong>British Heart Foundation (</strong><a href="https://www.bhf.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>BHF Site</strong></a><strong>)</strong>
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<div>They fund the research that made my surgery possible. From pioneering heart surgery techniques to supporting recovery programmes across the UK, their work saves lives every single day. I wouldn’t be here without them.
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<div><strong>Chelsea Past Players Trust </strong>
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<div>As a ex player of the Blues, and someone lucky enough to be still working for the club, this Trust does vital work supporting former Chelsea players who’ve fallen on hard times—with medical costs, wellbeing support, and keeping them connected to the club family. It’s about loyalty, legacy, and looking after our own and they were so supportive at this difficult time.
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<div><strong>What is My Challenge</strong>
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<div>Before the Chelsea v Fulham game at the end of August I'm embarking on a 130 mile cycle ride with my local friend Paul Gitsham.  We will travel from our village in Saltford near Bristol to Stamford Bridge. We are planning on completing this over 2 days and will arrive shortly before the game KO at 12:30.
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<div>I'm able to do this with the generous support of companies providing kit and accommodation, including tiQtoQ (<a href="https://www.tiqtoq.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Website</a>).
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<div><strong>Why I’m Fundraising</strong>
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<div>Recovery has given me time to reflect. And I don’t want this chapter of my life to be defined by surgery—but by what I chose to do with my second chance.
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<div>Whether you're a football fan, someone who's been touched by heart disease, or just someone who wants to do good—please consider donating. Every pound raised will be evenly split between the British Heart Foundation and the Chelsea Past Players Trust.
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<div>It’s my way of saying thank you. Of giving back. Of kicking on. Your support means everything. Please try and donate if you can.
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<div>David Lee
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Cycle Saltford to Stamford Bridge

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