Last summer, my dad, Anthony Ayles, was diagnosed with stage 4 high-grade B cell lymphoma in his spine and ribs. It’s an aggressive cancer that grows quickly, but thankfully can also respond well to treatment. After nine tough months of R-CHOP chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy, he is now in monitored remission for the next three years. We’re cautiously optimistic for the future!

Throughout Dad’s treatment, he often drew strength from Sir Chris Hoy. Cycling has always been a huge part of Dad’s life. When Sir Chris spoke publicly about facing his own stage 4 cancer diagnosis, it struck a chord with us. Hearing someone so well-known talk honestly about the reality of treatment made it easier for our family to have those conversations ourselves and to feel less alone in what Dad was going through.

When spirits were low during Dad’s third round of chemo, Sir Chris announced the Tour de 4—a fundraising cycling challenge for those affected by stage 4 cancer. It gave us a challenge to aim towards. So Dad, my sister Charlotte, many of Dad’s friends, and I have taken on the challenge together. It’s a 56-mile route through the hilly countryside outside Glasgow on Sunday 7th September.

We’re a competitive family and we do love a challenge. But more importantly, this ride is about raising money for Lymphoma Action—the UK’s only charity dedicated to lymphoma. Their mission is to make sure no one has to face lymphoma alone, and your support can genuinely make a difference.