AN OPTICIAN from Bidford is jumping in the saddle to help others in their battle with cancer.
Richard Fantom, of Richard Fantom Eyecare, is cycling from London to Paris to raise funds for Bloodwise.
Richard said: “In August 2012 I was diagnosed with Burkitt’s Lymphoma. Only a few months earlier I had felt healthy and well but by the time I was diagnosed with this very aggressive cancer I was gravely ill.
“I received superb treatment at the University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire and was lucky enough to make a good recovery. I had intended to ride London to Paris in September 2018 but was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma in June 2018.
“I had surgery to remove the tumour from my humerus and then started chemotherapy at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital five days before I was due to start the ride. Chemotherapy finished in January 2019 and I am recovering from that. This makes the challenge of riding over 500km to Paris greater, but my resolve stronger.
“I am hoping to raise as much money as I can for Bloodwise – Bloodwise works in many ways to help and support those affected by Blood cancers.”
Richard will set off on Thursday and is hoping to reach Paris on Sunday.
Visit justgiving.com/fundraising/richard-fantom-l2p2019 to sponsor Richard.
