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Hospital Staff Heroes Cycling to Save Lives

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Hospital team cycling from London to Amsterdam

Meet the team taking on an epic challenge for their workplace, Bristol Children’s Hospital. Four days, four countries, 335 miles; this incredible team is cycling from London to Amsterdam to raise money for sick kids in Bristol and beyond. Matron, Sarah Britton, managed to find some time amidst her busy work and cycling schedule to tell us more about the team and the passion behind their pedaling.  

Bristol Children's Hospital Staff ready to cycle from London to Amsterdam
What inspired you to take on this challenge? 

“Since training has started and the reality has set in, we’re beginning to wonder the same thing! When we signed up last year, we were all looking for a new challenge. Plus, Amsterdam is flat, so it seemed like a good idea. We all work closely with The Grand Appeal, so supporting the charity felt like a natural choice.  

The Grand Appeal is an amazing charity that makes a huge difference to the work we do. We see the projects they fund that benefit patients, families and staff. From life-saving equipment to making sure the staff tea and coffee supplies never dwindle, it’s great to be able to give something back and continue the vital improvements to the children’s hospital.” 

How do you feel about cycling 335 miles?  

“At the moment, most of our experience consists of a leisurely cycle to and from work. This is a huge, and rather daunting, challenge for all of us, but we know there will be a great support crew and that we’re doing it for all the right reasons. We will start and finish as a team and support each other every step (and pedal) of the way.  

We couldn’t be more excited to spend time with one another, have a bit of food cooked for us and only have ourselves to look after. Life at the hospital is great but can get a little hectic. We’re treating this as a little holiday, which also happens to support a cause close to all of our hearts.” 

What’s been the most rewarding aspect?  

“It’s been tricky squeezing in the training between rain, work and family commitments, but we’ve been so well supported by staff, family and friends who are constantly telling us we’re amazing for taking on the challenge… 

We’re also enjoying the team aspect. Although we are currently training separately due to busy schedules, we have group rides planned and WhatsApp group with other members of Team Grand Appeal, which is full of support and encouragement.  

We’re already looking forward to taking on a new challenge after this one. Lots of people doing this ride have experienced similar challenges in the past, so there must be something that keeps them coming back!” 

How is your fundraising going and have you chosen to do any other fundraising activities to help you reach your goal? 

“Our fundraising is off to a good start, but we’d love to be raising even more. We’re having a cake sale Thursday 29 February in the Bristol Children’s Hospital foyer, and a static bike ride on Tuesday 30 April to help raise funds. We hope these events will help to raise awareness of what we’re doing and, more importantly, why.  

We also have team members liaising with their local papers to raise awareness and we are all planning to update our Facebooks and JustGiving page with regular updates. Keep an eye out!”

Support Bristol Children’s Hospital Staff

Save lives with your strides on Sunday 19 May.