Well here we are again, I / we must be mental!!
As I may have mentioned last year;
I‘ve loved heavy metal for as long as I can recall… combining this with causes I am passionate about, raising both money for underprivileged children AND awareness of issues we all face is as my best friend of (now) 45years, Mike Penrose, recently stated; ‘some things you just have to do’.
So, Mike and I shall be undertaking the 175-mile cycle ride (again!!!) from The Big Penny Social in London E17, right around the corner from where I was born, to Download festival 2024 at the home of British heavy metal, Donington Park.
So, other than being invited along and the prospect of completing the challenge with Mike, why are we doing this?
In July it will be THREE since I completed treatment for cancer. Two years in full remission. The mental and physical challenges were immense.
Not only me, but other best mate of nearly 30 years, Alan, college friend Nicky and respected colleague Alex have all suffered tremendously due to cancer and its related side effects.
My huge respect goes out to them for their fortitude and support in theirs and my battles. Thank you.
It will soon be the 12 year anniversary of the passing of friend and respected photographer Ashley Maile. He had bowel cancer and was just 35. I think of him any time download festival (or us watching Gojira there together in 2006) mentioned in conversation. He was simply one of the best people I’ve ever had the privilege to meet.
Mark Walker, an ex-doorman colleague and close friend passed away 5 years ago this year - the news was shared with me the day I arrived at BloodStock festival… he was a vivacious and strong character, much missed. He had bladder cancer and was 57.
If Mike, fellow Truants and myself can raise anything by way of financial support and awareness, then mission accomplished.
A massive ‘thank you’ to my employer, Celer Tech for their support and kickstart to my fundraising. You are wonderful people.
Please, if you can, share and donate as you are able.
The HMT proudly support;
Teenage Cancer Trust
Nordoff Robbins
Save the Children
ChildLine
Wish us - The Dirty Dozen - all the luck!
