A man who was diagnosed with a brain tumour 14 years ago is using his pedal power to help find a cure.
Andy Rivers is taking part in our Cycle 274 Miles in August Challenge, which begins today. Despite only starting cycling in January, he is aiming to complete three 100-mile rides with friends Cray Birch (pictured left, with Andy right), Neil Goodwin and Daniel Freeman, with support from Bedford pub The Pheasant where they will start and end each ride.
It’s after Andy was diagnosed with an inoperable temporal lobe glioma after suffering a seizure in July 2008. At the time, he was given a prognosis of just five years.
Fifteen years on, Andy said: “Now every day’s a special day and I live each one to the full.”
He is also cycling inspired by a friend who has recently undergone surgery to remove a brain tumour.
Andy added: “I know it’s going to be tough but the reason I’m doing it will get me through. People with brain tumours are having to fight every day so the least I can do is fight to show my support for this charity.
“Brain tumours are non-existent until they move into your world and then you realise just how common they are. It’s shocking that despite being the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40, historically just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to the disease. More needs to be done.”
To support Andy’s fundraising, visit his Facebook fundraiser here.