Armed forces veterans to cycle 180 miles to support Macmillan Cancer nurses

HMS Collingwood’s environment and energy manager will soon be facing a different kind of energy challenge as he embarks on a fundraising cycle ride to raise money to support people suffering from cancer.
Keith Clark, Spencer Drain, Steve Vaughan and Mark Powell take a break on a training ride.Keith Clark, Spencer Drain, Steve Vaughan and Mark Powell take a break on a training ride.
Keith Clark, Spencer Drain, Steve Vaughan and Mark Powell take a break on a training ride.

Mark Powell will join other Armed Forces veterans to cycle 180 miles from Birmingham’s Bullring to Havant Ex-Serviceman’s Club in four days.

The aim is to raise awareness and funds to help Macmillan Cancer nurses who support cancer patients through all stages of treatment.

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Joining Mark will be veterans Keith Clark, Steve Vaughan and Spencer Drain. It will present a major challenge for the quartet who are not long-distance cyclists and have previously cycled a maximum daily distance of 25 miles.

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It will be a very personal journey for Mark who said: ‘I’ve been saddened this year by the number of close friends that have been devastated with tragic and terminal news due to cancer.

‘I’ve seen first hand how it has affected their lives and their families and can’t put into words the emotions and feelings of these situations. I have in mind three special people who are living day to day not knowing what tomorrow will bring.

‘When I have listened to the incredible stories of what they have endured with treatment, pain and suffering, two things stand out in particular. One, how lucky I am, so I really want to do something to help them in their time of need, and two, the incredible humanity of the doctors and nurses that have supported each of them the near the end of their lives.

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‘These nurses are amazing and have to cope with a roller-coaster of emotions.’

After witnessing first-hand the dedication and compassion of the nurses, Mark wanted show his appreciation.

He added: ‘They do it day-in, day-out. Unless you come into contact with this subject you may not even know these specialist nurses exist.

‘I’ve never done anything like this before but while I’m fit and healthy, I want to give these people something to say “thank you” for helping the people I know and love.

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The group have raised £1,465 towards their £2,000 target. You can donate to the cause via the group’s JustGiving page.

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