30 Jan 2017 Community

Claire’s hobby yields £1,894 for Hospice funds

Of all the fundraising events supporters have chosen to raise funds for Kirkwood Hospice over the years, the recent 140 mile ‘Coast 2 Coast’ challenge undertaken by keen cyclist, Claire Furness, has to be one of the most arduous and challenging for even the fittest and experienced of fundraisers.

Wakefield-born amateur cyclist, Claire, was determined to take up the gauntlet to raise funds for the Hospice, despite having had epilepsy since birth, undergoing intensive neurosurgery and suffering from Asperger Syndrome.  

Knowing exactly what lay ahead of her in terms of distance and an often gruelling terrain, she trained rigorously during the weeks leading up to the event, which spans the width of Britain from Workington to Tynemouth. 

Three days of cycling saw Claire pedal-pushing through some of the most gloriously panoramic yet rugged scenery. from Ullswater Lake to the 2,480ft summit at Hartside.

Claire (right) presents a cheque for an impressive £1,894 to Kirkwood Fundraiser Lyndsey Richardson.

 

Following the event, an exhausted yet exuberant Claire said “This was a big life challenge for me and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Cycling has, up until now, been just a hobby, so I’m really proud of what I have achieved and just hope I can inspire other people to never give up on their dreams.”

Kirkwood fundraiser, Lyndsey Richardson, who had worked closely with Claire said “Everyone at Kirkwood would like to say a big thank you to Claire for completing such a difficult challenge.

"Her courage, passion and determination is absolutely incredible and I’m sure her story will serve to inspire others.”