Brain tumour survivor Michael McGarrity is part-way through a 500-mile cycle ride to raise funds to help find a cure for the disease.
Michael had been due to take part in the North Coast 500 challenge but when the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions saw the cancellation of the event he was determined to keep going.
Instead, he set out last weekend of cover the 500 miles over the course of seven days to raise money for Brain Tumour Research. He is riding a selection of routes around Scotland, finishing in the shadow of Arthur’s Seat on Saturday 12th September. Clocking up a total distance of 508 miles, Michael will pedal a whopping 90 miles in one day and will climb approximately 32,000ft – an altitude higher than Mt Everest.
Following his diagnosis with a brain tumour five years ago, Michael has undergone surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and faces the possibility of further treatments in the future. Michael has since supported Brain Tumour Research and has previously taken to his bike to fundraise for the charity.
He says: “Cycling was an activity I really missed during my treatment and recovery, and since I was able to literally ‘get back on the bike’ I’ve found it to be a great boost both my mental and physical health. Last year I was able to raise money for Brain Tumour Research when I took part in the 85-mile Etape Caledonia in Perthshire and the 75-mile Tour ‘o the Borders, raised around £2,000 thanks to all the wonderful friends and family who donated.”
Michael has already raised an additional £2,000 thanks to his latest efforts.
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