A Milton Keynes trio will cycle the length of the UK to raise money for national charity Epilepsy Action.
This summer, Mitch Wheeler, 51, and two of his sons, James, 16, and Thomas, 14, will cycle 900 miles from John O’Groats in the Scottish Highlands to Land’s End, Cornwall. They are taking on the challenge in memory of their nephew and cousin, Carl, who died as a result of his epilepsy in 2009 when he was just 19 years old.
Mitchell’s wife Diane will be providing support to the team along the way by setting up camp, preparing meals and helping with any first aid.
Mitch said: “We all miss Carl and wanted to do something in his memory to help support other teenagers with epilepsy. I cycled from Land’s End to John O’Groats with my eldest son five years ago. Now my two younger sons want to do it, so it seemed like the perfect way to remember Carl. As well as raising money for a great cause, it will be a great experience for us all and a fantastic memory for the future.
The Wheeler family, who live in Great Holm, has already raised over £1,250, which will help fund the vital support, advice and information services provided by Epilepsy Action. To sponsor the team, visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/end2endwheelers
For more information about taking part in fundraising events for Epilepsy Action, visit www.epilepsy.org.uk/involved
Epilepsy affects one in every 131 people in the UK alone and 75 people are diagnosed with the condition every day. Last year Epilepsy Action directly helped over 845,000 people through a range of services, including its Epilepsy Helpline freephone 0808 800 5050, branch network, specialist nurse scheme and award-winning website, www.epilepsy.org.uk