Cyclist Embarks on Epic 3000km UK-wide Cycling Tour to Honour Nurses and Support Seriously Ill Children
In a remarkable demonstration of gratitude and to raise vital funds, Andrew Gould from Wimbledon is set to embark on an ultra-challenging 3000km cycling tour around the United Kingdom.
The “Tour of Appreciation” in support of WellChild, the national charity for seriously ill children, aims to honour the 53 dedicated WellChild nurses working in over 40 hospitals across the UK with children battling complex medical conditions.
Starting his journey in Truro on Monday 4th March, Andrew will visit WellChild funded Nurses at more than 30 hospital stop-offs across the entire UK over a three-week period in the first ever challenge of this magnitude. He wants to shine a light on the critical role played by the nurses in the well-being of seriously ill children. The tour is not only a testament to Andrew’s personal dedication but also serves as a platform to raise awareness and funds for WellChild’s invaluable work.
Speaking during his training, Andrew said:
“Having worked with WellChild in the past, the stories of the nurses and the families that they work with are an absolute inspiration. The skill, care and passion of the nurses is the beating heart of the charity and I want to do my bit to mark the incredible work that they do in helping children with complex medical needs to thrive.”
As a keen challenge event enthusiast, Andrew has embarked on some remarkable challenges in recent years including the formidable Marathon Des Sables, where he ran seven marathons in a week through the Sahara Desert. However he believes this may be his toughest trial yet. He said:
“It’s giving me more sleepless nights than anything I’ve done in the past. This is not something that anyone else has previously attempted; it’s far longer and far more logistically challenging than anything I’ve done before. I’m really going to be relying on the support of everyone encouraging me along at home to get through it.”
Through media coverage, daily vlog updates, social media takeovers and photographs with nurses and families at each stop, Andrew aims to generate support for WellChild’s work and raise vital funds to enhance the charity’s impact.
WellChild CEO, Matt James said:
"Andrew's commitment is inspiring and we are incredibly grateful for his efforts in bringing attention to the challenges faced by seriously ill children across the UK, as well as the crucial care role that our WellChild Nurses play. People like Andrew enable us to continue our work, creating a society where children with complex medical needs can thrive, out of hospital, within their communities, and at home."
The Tour of Appreciation is supported by several corporate partners who are helping Andrew to get through the journey and maximise his fundraising and promotion. West Way have provided support vehicles for the entire tour and Fortnum & Mason have generously donated gifts for Andrew to present to each nurse on his stop. WellChild is currently in discussions with further partners and welcomes any additional offers of help.
