Hi my name is Lukáš Jakovec. Since my country (Czech Republic) is not supported by GoFundMe, the campaign is technically sponsored by my close friend Pisana Ferrari from Italy. Pisana will act as intermediary and will transfer the collected funds to my bank account in the Czech Republic.
I have a background as a professional chef, and I am also an athlete. I recently completed "Wheels of Hope," a campaign to raise awareness of organ donation and transplantation, conducted in partnership with the Alliance for Pulmonary Hypertension, a Brussels-based international non profit organisation of which Pisana is President, during which I cycled 22,800 kilometers across Europe, with a total elevation gain of 155,000 meters — often through rain, freezing cold, and harsh winds, sleeping out under the stars along the way. It was physically and mentally demanding, but it taught me that every kilometer ridden can carry a deeper purpose.
That is why I have decided to keep going. This time, I am setting off on a journey around the world that will take me through more than 50 countries — and am dedicating this challenge to someone who fights every single day: 5-year-old Eleonorka.
Eleonorka's Story: A Little Fighter with a Big Smile
Eleonorka is 5 years old — a cheerful, energetic little girl who loves animals, music, and being around people. But her life is far more demanding than that of most children her age. She was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a rare genetic disorder that weakens the muscles and gradually drains the body of its strength.
In May 2022, Eleonorka underwent Zolgensma gene therapy, which has slowed down the progression of the disease. SMA, however, remains incurable. Eleonorka must continue demanding daily rehabilitation, physiotherapy, and periods of neurorehabilitation. Her true kingdom is the water, where she finally experiences real freedom of movement. It is her indomitable strength that inspired me to launch this project: "Cycling for Eli".
How I Will Be Spreading Awareness Along the Way
Raising money is only half of this project — the other half is making sure as many people as possible learn about SMA and about Eleonorka's story. Along the route, I will be:
• Wearing branded cycling gear featuring the project's name and logo, so the story travels with him through every country and every photo
• Handing out flyers and small giveaways to people he meets on the road — in towns, at rest stops, and at any local events or meetings along the way
• Sharing a QR code on his gear, flyers, and social media, linking directly to this fundraiser and to more information about SMA
• Posting regular updates, photos, and videos from the road across his social media channels, so followers can follow both the journey and the cause in real time
Every conversation, every flyer handed out, and every kilometer ridden is a chance to put Eleonorka's story — and SMA itself — in front of someone new.
Project Goal and How the Funds Will Be Used
The goal of this charitable journey around the world is to raise awareness of SMA and to raise €20,000. Half of this amount will go towards supporting Eli's medical expenses, the other half toward making the journey itself possible — allowing me to travel safely through more than 50 countries, document my progress, and effectively spread awareness for Eleonorka.
Specifically, the funds will cover:
• Equipment and survival: bike servicing and repairs, expedition gear (tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag), sportswear, cycling shoes, and wilderness camping essentials
• Health and safety: travel and medical insurance abroad, necessary medical check-ups, and treatment or medication for emergencies
• Documentation and awareness: social media management, mobile data plans and navigation maps worldwide, a phone for filming, and promotional flyers and T-shirts
• Basic necessities: budget-friendly daily food, essential lodging in high-risk areas, and visas for the countries along the route
Every kilometer ridden under these extreme conditions will belong to Eleonorka and her family — for whom this awareness and support mean the world.
Follow the Journey and Help
I will be sharing the full route and the daily reality of life on the road across his social media. Follow along, share my story, and help me reach the goal:
• Lukáš Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wild.lukaaas/
• Lukáš Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ljakovec
• Lukas youTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Wild.lukaaas
• Eli Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/vitrdoplachet
• Eli website: https://l1nq.com/fp322ck
• Eli Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vitrdoplachetproeleonorku?stkn=ZTJkaG5ydjgwcjFh
Thank you to everyone who chooses to help — whether through a donation, by sharing this story, or simply by sending a message of support along the way. Together, we can do this.
Read about the "Wheels of Hope" campaign at this link: https://ph-ksp.com/organ-donation/