A father from Preston, Chris Maiden, is cycling 300 km from London to Paris on his beloved Brompton bike for the Meningitis Trust this month.
The 300K is a challenge in itself for any keen cyclist, however Chris has decided to challenge himself even further by using a bike that folds to the size of a large carrier bag, has 16″ wheels and only 3 gears instead of a more standard road bike.
Chris, who is a Drupal web developer, decided to raise the much needed funds for the Trust to help others who have been affected by meningitis. Fortunately Chris hasnât experienced the disease, yet with a three year old daughter, Emily, the disease is very much on Chrisâ mind.
Chris Maiden says, âItâs every parents worse nightmare, your child being diagnosed with meningitis, I pray that Emily doesnât contract it. I want to be able to help other parents whose children have had the disease and have been supported generously by the Trust.
The Meningitis Trust provides practical and emotional support to help those affected by meningitis and raises vital awareness about the disease, its symptoms and its after-effects
âMeningitis is a devastating disease that can strike anyone at any age without warning,â said Liz Fenwick, Communications Executive at the Meningitis Trust. âThe signs are often difficult to spot because early on they can be like those of colds and flu. Knowing the symptoms not only saves lives but can also help prevent the savage after-effects that meningitis can causeâ.
The funds raised from Chrisâ London to Paris Cycle Challenge will enable the Meningitis Trust to continue providing ongoing help and support to people affected by meningitis. For the many thousands of people who have been, and continue to be, affected by meningitis, and for those who sadly will be affected in the future, the Trust is a lifeline. Itâs the only charity of its kind, focusing on fighting meningitis through awareness and providing the best possible support to those affected.
You can sponsor Chris by visiting his Just Giving page.