Alongside my uncle Alan, and cousin Oliver, I have signed up to take part in Sir Chris Hoy’s inaugural cycling sportive “The Tour de 4” to help raise funds for cancer charities and to show support for all of those living with stage 4 cancer. Dad (John), who is also an avid cyclist, planned to take part and was well on his way with bike training, however due to recent setbacks will sadly be unable to take part on the day (although I’ll certainly be relying on his bike expertise and motivational speeches for what’s to come…)

Inspired by Dad, who is currently living with stage 4 stomach cancer, I will be going the extra (1000) miles; aiming to cycle solo & unsupported from Land’s End to John O’Groats (the length of the UK) via Glasgow in time to take part in the Tour de 4. It’s going to be tough (and BBC weather is not on my side right now…) but hopefully with a few tailwinds and sunnier spells it’ll be a pretty epic adventure too.

Stomach cancer struck Dad out of the blue in Sept 2023. It's been a wee bit tough! After several major operations, a long hospital residence (followed by many shorter ones), months of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, countless scans & many other scopes and pokes, he’s still battling on. 

So this is our quest to give back! To do our bit and help ensure others can be well looked after and benefit from improvements in cancer care. Also, for Dad’s own wellbeing, to keep him out riding, as he’s always loved to do, and help keep the life spirit firmly in his sights.

We’re raising money for WISHH Charity (Working Independently to Support Hull Hospitals) and your contribution will make an impact, whether you donate a lot or a little. Anything helps.

WISHH is an independent charitable trust through which your kind donations will be coordinated, managed and then applied across the facilities, services and equipment at Hull Royal Infirmary and Castle Hill Hospital, for the benefit of patients and visitors alike.

We have chosen for these funds to be directed to the Queens Oncology Centre at Castle Hill Hospital; a dedicated cancer unit devoted to high quality care, cutting edge research and along with other cancer hubs, helps lead the way in the battle against many types of cancer. Any amount helps, whether it’s contributing to the hundreds of £ funds that support modern advances in cancer care, or a £2 box of post-op ice pops (absolutely essential, iykyk).

Your donations are very much appreciated.

John, Alan, Oliver & Ella Shepherd.