This September 4 of us (Daren, Nick, Simon and Henry) will be taking part in Tour de 4 2026, the cycling event launched by Sir Chris Hoy following his Stage 4 cancer diagnosis. None of us are road bikers, Henry (Daren's son) has never been on a road bike until now and the other 3 of us prefer off-road riding, so this 38 mile ride around Glasgow and the surrounding area won't be easy for us.

We have signed up to this event as Daren (aged 55 at the time) was diagnosed with bowel cancer in Feb 25 having had virtually no symptoms and was told the tumour had likely been present for quite some time without him knowing, even having had a NHS screening test a few months earlier. It then transpired he has Stage 4 cancer as it had already spread to his liver and lungs. Despite this diagnosis he is still feeling really well and has continued life largely as normal over the last 18 months even during various periods of treatments - working throughout this time and exercising regularly (crossfit, mountain biking etc).

We are taking on this road ride challenge to raise awareness that cancer is affecting more people at a younger age and the importance of knowing the symptoms of the more common types of cancer - if you have any concerns, or are experiencing even minor symptoms, seek medical advice and don't wait around !!

Tourde4 brings together people living with Stage 4 cancer, alongside friends, families and supporters, to ride side by side and raise vital funds for cancer charities. The event is about showing that a diagnosis does not define a person, and highlighting what life with Stage 4 cancer can look like: strength, resilience and determination - you can continue living and doing many of things you enjoy, you just don't know the timescale.

All funds raised will go to charities supporting people affected by Stage 4 cancer. We have chosen to support Bowel Cancer UK, If you’re able to donate or share, we’d be incredibly grateful. Every contribution helps provide vital support and care for people affected by cancer.