Sergeant Neil King, of 47 Squadron, RAF Brize Norton, has embarked on a gruelling 47-hour cycling challenge in aid of Myeloma UK.
Beginning his challenge at 1300 hrs on 17 March 2021, Neil braced himself for what would be his hardest ride to date! With many friends, family members and work colleagues joining him virtually during the long nights to keep his motivation going and his legs spinning on his turbo trainer.
Neil said:
“In 2019 my father was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a type of bone marrow cancer that can often affect several areas of the body. As a keen cyclist I wanted to challenge myself and decided to take on a 47-hour virtual cycling event and raise awareness of Myeloma UK at the same time.”
Sergeant Neil King
47 Squadron
Myeloma UK is the only organisation in the UK dealing exclusively with myeloma, their ultimate goal is to find a cure. They continually strive to improve standards of treatment and care through research, education and raising awareness of myeloma. Relying almost entirely on voluntary donations and fundraising.
After cycling for 47-hours supported by friends and family, Neil completed his challenge at midday on 19 March 2021, reaching a staggering 239 miles. Raising an impressive £1,608 for Myeloma UK with some donations yet to be received.
Neil said:
“I am blown away by the amount I have raised for Myeloma UK, I initially set a target of £750 more out of hope than expectation; to have doubled that figure is amazing. The early hours of Friday morning were a struggle, but I knew I had to keep pedalling, my 47 hours of pain is nothing compared to what my dad has to live with every day.”
Sergeant Neil King
47 Squadron
