Dad will be watching as I take on big charity trek
REELING from the death of his dad to a terminal illness, BEN JOHNSON vowed to take on a huge challenge his father had completed years ago cycling from John O’groats to Lands End. Here he tells us why he hopes it will be a big boost to two local charities.
IFINALLY plucked up the courage to take on the challenge my Dad did many years ago… cycle from John O’groats - Lands End.
I spent some time and spoke with close friends and family about what charities I would want to do it for. Springhill Hospice and The Christie’s Charity were my choices.
I knew what both these organisations do and how they both go above and beyond in the care they provide and how any donations they receive help massively!
From announcing this task, within a week of that happening, my dad, Alan Johnson was then diagnosed with Small Cells Lung Cancer and was told he would only have 12 weeks.
Unfortunately it was even shorter than that and [he died on October 2029. aged 67-years-old].
My dad was well aware of my Charity cycle and fully supported me and his last words regarding the cycle were, “You’ll do this Ben, I know it, more so for me, I will be watching from above.”
When my Dad was diagnosed I saw first hand how hardworking each and everyone of the staff members at Springhill Hospice and The Christie’s truly are.
They provide excellent levels of care for those who really need it.
Springhill Hospice gave my dad hospice at home care and was there whatever time of day or night when needed. My family are truly grateful for all you have done.
Posting onto social media about my cycle I have been successful in gaining sponsorship from three amazing companies.
Adalogo have offered to customise clothing from T shirts to cycling clothes.
The Endurance Hub in Littleborough have sponsored me a brand new helmet, cycling shoes and equipment for the journey.
Graham Poole Road Transport have sponsored me by purchasing the bike itself! The main thing I need to complete the journey ‘JOGLE.’
I am so grateful for each and every one of them, they have helped me so much and support me massively!
Before my cycle I have two major fundraising events, First one being at The Jolly Carter, Middleton on Saturday, March 16.
Myself and cousin Dave Allen are hosting a Charity Race Night.
Free entry to all, just come on down and get involved, will be a great night!
My second event will be on Saturday, May 25 at Milnrow Memorial Park.
This will be one massive fun filled day consisting of live music/entertainment, stalls, inflatables and a celebrity appearance!
All money raised from both events will go towards the grand total raised on my Just Giving Page.
My target set is £5,000, deep down I am really hoping to raise much more than the set target. At the end I will be splitting the total 50/50 between both charities.
I am still on the hunt for a van hire for the journey and if anyone can help in anyway I would be massively grateful.