Cycling under the stars
A HUSBAND and wife team from Reading have cycled 100km (60 miles) overnight to raise funds for the hospice which cared for their family member at the end of her life.
Sheena and Steve Masoero took part in the NightRider cycling challenge last month, riding through the streets of London under the night sky to raise vital funds for Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice.
The fundraising challenge was in memory of Emma Daly (nee Campbell), Sheena’s half-sister, who lived in Newbury and received specialist palliative care and support from the hospice before she passed away from cervical cancer in January, aged 40.
“Emma’s cancer progressed quickly and it became evident that her battle could very sadly not be won,” Sheena said.
“Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice was there to care for and support Emma when she needed them most – without question or delay. For this I will always be thankful.
“It was important to us to take on this challenge so we could help ensure that the service is available to others who may find themselves in a similar situation.”
The couple set out with a fundraising target of £400, but have over tripled this, raising a total of £1,515 and counting.
Sheena said: “It was a great experience riding round London through the night - dodging buses, potholes, late night revellers and foxes, and taking in all the iconic landmarks.
“We had perfect conditions and padded shorts and we were really truly spurred on by all the amazing support shown to us by everyone who has donated for a great charity.
“We did it in Emma’s memory and that made it all worthwhile. Thank you so much to everyone who supported us with kind wishes, messages and donations.”
The support has been appreciated by the charity.
Georgia Thornton, Community Fundraiser at Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice, said: “We’re so grateful to Sheena and Steve for taking on this brilliant challenge to support our hospice.
“We’re reliant on generous supporters, which means we can continue to provide the expert and compassionate care we are so well known for in the local community.”