Last year my dad, was diagnosed with Mesothelioma.Mesothelioma is an incurable form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos.My dad can trace his exposure back to when he was younger working as a plumber, and while asbestos was banned for use in the UK in 1999, it is still present in many public buildings. It is in many of our schools, hospitals, leisure centres and high street stores. As these buildings age and deteriorate, more people will risk exposure to the dust.As a result of this disease, my father, who was, up until last year a very fit and healthy 70+ year old, who enjoyed many long days in the hills and mountains, has suffered a significant deterioration in his quality of life and has many days where he is in pain. He can now only manage short walks to the local shops and finds travelling difficult.While the treatment plan he is on has significantly helped and slowed down the growth, it is still an incurable cancer.Mesothelioma UK and Asbestos Support Central England have been a tremendous support to both my dad and mom and I have therefore decided to do a charity bike ride in May 2024 to raise funds to support their work.I am riding the full length of France, from the Channel to the Mediterranean. This is a 850mile ride which I will undertake in only 10 days. While I have done several big rides over the years, these have all been single day rides and this is a significant step-up riding day after day and has a cumulative ascent of 18,400 metres, which is greater than climbing Everest twice. I will be spending 6+ hours in the saddle each day.I&#x27;d really appreciate any support you can give in our quest to raise funds for these two very worthwhile and underfunded charities. No amount is too small, and please only donate what is affordable to you.Mesothelioma UK is the national charity for anyone affected by mesothelioma. They exist to support patients to live better and for longer, and to prevent mesothelioma happening to future generations. They do this by advocating for better treatment and care, and supporting research.Asbestos Support Central England is a registered charity set up to help people with asbestos related diseases and to campaign for the safe removal of asbestos.

Glen Harris

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