A SOLIHULL duo saddled up and pedalled across Ireland in memory of their parents.
Simon Clare and Dave Sanders cycled 427 miles across the Emerald Isle in aid of the Marie Curie Hospice in Solihull.
The self confessed ‘social cyclists’ started their journey at Malin Head on Saturday, June 8 and are due to finish tomorrow (Friday).
Speaking before they started the pair said: “This is a real test of endurance for us both as we are really only social cyclists but have clocked up over 3,000 training miles since signing up for the ride, so hopefully we are ready for the challenge ahead.
“The route will see us ride down the west of coast of Ireland.
“Both of us are really looking forward to the spectacular views but not some much the hills and climbs that precede them.”
Simon and Dave set out to raise £5,555.55 and so far have raised almost £6,500.
When asked what will keep them going the tougher parts of the ride they said: “The memory of our mums, their strength and courage in the face of adversity and for the staff of Marie Curie, who deserve great credit for the care they deliver to terminally ill patients – we are doing this for all of them.”
Dave, aged 51, has seen first hand the hard work and dedication of the nurses at the Marsh Lane hospice.
His mum died at the hospice in 2015 after battling with cancer for several years previously.
The father of five said: “As all too many people can testify, watching helplessly as the fight is taken from someone you love is difficult and affected the whole family greatly.
“As much as the staff in Hospital worked very hard and were so caring, there just is not enough support for someone nearing the end of their fight with a terminal illness.
“Fortunately, Mum was admitted to Marie Curie Hospice which eventually proved to be her home for her last five weeks.”
In 2004 Simon’s mum and dad both died of cancer and due to the speed of their illness they were unable to be cared for in a hospice.
However after the 57-year-old was inspired to cycle in aid of the Solihull hospice after he went to a fundraising event where the guest of honour was a Marie Curie ward sister.
He said: “She gave such an emotional and interesting speech about how the money is spent that it made me stop and think that just attending a function is okay but to actually test yourself and raise a decent amount of money for Marie Curie is something that we could all do.”
For more or to donate visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/SiDaveMCIreland2019
