By Leicester Mercury | Posted: September 10, 2015
A woman is cycling 1,000 miles on her father's favourite bike after he died at Loros hospice following his battle with motor neurone disease.
Ruth Gurd set off from Land's End to John O'Groats on Sunday – a challenge her dad, James, had always dreamed of completing but never had the chance to.
Ruth, 33, of Ashby, said: "My father had always been an incredibly fit man."
"A sporting enthusiast from childhood, he was a keen and gifted cyclist for over 60 years.
"In the early spring of 2013, daddy was diagnosed with motor neurone disease and his world turned upside down.
"His great ambition was to cycle from Land's End to John O'Groats on his favourite bike. He signed up to do a 15-day tour in 2013 but was diagnosed with MND shortly after.
"Now, I will be riding the route on his beloved bike."
James was diagnosed with motor neurone disease at the age of 70.
He was always a supporter of Loros, having raised funds for the Leicester hospice for more than 20 years.
Ruth said: "Although he had begun to notice a few ailments in his late 60s the diagnosis came as a huge shock.
"The consultant told him that if you had to have MND, Leicestershire was the county to have it in – the support was unparalleled.
"Loros truly is a magical place, full of joy and comfort in the face of grief."
Ruth, who is raising money for the hospice, is set to complete her cycle challenge on September 19.
She said: "The route is going to be physically and emotionally challenging but I am proud to try in memory of my wonderful father."
To sponsor Ruth, visit her justgiving page here
To help LOROS continue caring for people like James, Ruth and the rest of their family, please support the Hospice’s 30 For 30 campaign by visiting loros.co.uk/30for30
To donate, text ‘CARE 24 30’ to 70070 to donate £30 or donate online here
