Hundreds to make cycle trip to Poland (From Penarth Times)

Hundreds to make cycle trip to Poland

The MARIE Curie Hospice in Penarth has announced its most ambitious fundraising event ever - The Great 500.

500 cyclists will make a spectacular entrance together into Polish capital Warsaw next September, from one of five routes that cycle across Poland or neighbouring countries, and raise £1 million for Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Adela Shephard, fundraising manager, said: "We are recruiting a team to take parting this amazing event for Marie Curie Hospice. A cyclist will fund the care of one patient for 5 days which is incredible and we hope enough people will take part so we can fund the Hospice for a full week!

"Last year we admitted an elderly gentleman with cancer who only had a few days to live. In conversation with the hospital he came from we were told his wife of over 50 years was in a near by hospital, for an un-related illness she would recover from. This couple had never had a day apart until now and he was about to die with out her. We arranged to admit his wife so this would not happen. Often it is only when you are in a position to experience the care given by the amazing team at the Hospice you realise its value - its price less. By taking part in the Great 500 you will embark on an amazing personal challenge that will change your life but also the lives of those we care for."

At any one time thirty patients stay at Marie Curie Hospice Penarth, to achieve the best quality of life possible.

Consultants and nurses work along side therapists and social workers to ensure a holistic approach to their and their families care.

It is easy to take part in the Great 500, first call Adela, or her colleagues on 02920 42 6068 to get some more details of the 5 cycle routes, and then register to take part.

Over the next year whilst you enjoy cycling in your evenings or weekends with friends and family, you will prepare for the event.

As a participant in the Great 500 you will raise a minimum sponsorship of £1,800.

Every year people with no previous experience raise thousands of pounds for Marie Curie Hospice Penarth and the fundraising team help you every step of the way.