Ben Bolland, a Civil Servant from Seaview, is set to cycle 150 miles around the Isle of Wight on Friday (22nd June), before taking on the Prudential Ride 100 2018 bike ride just a month later in memory of his mum, Sian.
Shortly before his mum died, Ben signed up for Ride London to raise funds for Ovarian Cancer Action. He didn’t know then that the time they had left would be so short, so now more than ever, he wants to do what he can for ovarian cancer research.
Ben, 40, has said:
“On 29th March this year, my mum, Sian, passed away after a 15 month battle with ovarian cancer. Mum died just two days before her 69th birthday, but in her time she did so much with her life, always focusing on supporting others.
“Beyond raising three children, making a fantastic home (both in the UK and New Zealand) and being a great teacher, an amazing cook and an attentive gardener, mum also took on some huge challenges in her life; like taking herself out to Nepal to teach and help re-build a school, following the earthquake in 2015’ campaigning hard for more recognition for the Welsh language in her younger days; and volunteering to teach English to refugees. Everything mum did aimed at helping others to grow and everyone she met was always greeted with a huge smile.
“Her loss has left a massive hole in our family, but she leaves us with so many wonderful memories.
“On Friday 22nd June I will be riding 150 miles in a day around the beautiful Isle of Wight, before taking on Ride London, a 100 mile bike ride through the streets of London on Saturday 28th July.”
Ben will be setting off early on Friday morning from Seaview. His aim is to cycle around the Island twice in just 1 day, achieving a total distance of 150miles. If all goes well, Ben is hoping to complete his challenge in 10-12 hours.
The Prudential Ride London 100 is a cycle ride that will take place on Saturday 28th July. It starts in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and maps a 100-mile route on closed roads through the capital and into Surrey’s stunning countryside. The ride follows in the tracks of the London 2012 Olympic champions and includes a fair few leg-testing climbs — all made worth it by a spectacular finish in The Mall in central London.
Cary Wakefield, Chief Executive of Ovarian Cancer Action, said:
“We fund research to ensure early diagnosis and best possible treatment for the 7,400 women diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year. It’s thanks to fundraisers like Ben who are willing to take on incredible challenges that enables us to improve the lives of women diagnosed with this disease. From everyone here at Ovarian Cancer Action, best of luck Ben!”
Symptoms of ovarian cancer are often mistaken for symptoms of less serious conditions, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Regular experience of the following could be a symptom of ovarian cancer, if you’re worried, speak to your GP: Persistent stomach pain, Persistent bloating, Difficulty eating/feeling full more quickly, Needing to wee more frequently.
Ben has already raised over £1,110. It’s not too late for you to sponsor Ben too… visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Ben-Bolland.
