Gran on Euro bike challenge for charity cash
AGRAN- OF- TWO has set off on a gruelling 1,250-mile bike ride through Europe in aid of a transplant charity.
Jane McDowell from Heald Green has taken on her biggest cycling challenge yet to raise money for Kidneys for Life – which funds research into renal transplants.
The 51-year-old is passionate about raising awareness of the charity’s work as her sister, Juliet, is a two-time organ recipient whose life has been transformed by transplantation.
After five years on dialysis Juliet received her first kidney in 1990, and went on to become a goldmedal winner for Team GB at the Transplant Olympics.
Jane and friend Rick Nice began their two-week cycle in Nice, France, where they will also cover a section of Paris’ Roubaix cobbles.
Their route – which involves 87,365ft of climbing – will take them over the Alps and through Germany, Italy, Switzerland and Belgium.
The pair will then catch a ferry from Zeebrugge to Hull and cycle the final 114 miles home to Heald Green.
Jane – who took up cycling five years ago when arthritis forced her to give up netball and badminton – said she was looking for a challenge that would really test her.
She said: “I did the coastto-coast ride five years ago and I felt that really pushed me because I wasn’t a cyclist at that stage.
“I’ve been doing other on my last trip away on holiday I took five bikinis.”
Jane says Juliet’s achievements have been an inspiration to her.
She said: “My sister would probably never had lived to the age she is now if it weren’t for her two transplants.
“She actually wanted to be a sports teacher when she was at school and was told to think about something different.
“So for her to go on and take part in the Olympics shows how a transplant can transform someone’s life.
“I’ve not raised money for charity since I was at school , so I thought it was time I did something to help out Kidneys for Life.”
To sponsor Jane visit virginmoneygiving. com/ janemcdowell.