Father and daughter duo Paul and Abby Holden have answered the call from our local charity and hopped on their bikes to cycle 100 miles – raising almost £1000 in the process.
Paul, whose family hails from Exmouth, has joined forces with 21 year-old Abby to raise money for the hospice that looked after Paul’s dad, Tony, during his four-year battle with cancer.
“We have always wanted to do something to acknowledge the outstanding support and care we received from Hospiscare, who looked after my dad in his final days following a hard-fought four years battling cancer. Hospiscare’s kindness and expertise made a huge difference to dad, and all the family, at such a hard time.
“Getting on our bikes to cycle a hundred miles for Hospiscare’s Tour de Devon challenge felt like a great way to give something back, as well as a chance for Abby and I to do something together in memory of dad. We’ve been blown away by the incredibly generous support of our family and friends. Our original goal was to raise £300 so it feels fantastic to be approaching the £1,000 fundraising mark!”
Paul’s dad, Tony, who was cared for by Hospiscare
Event organiser, Becky Botfield, said: “Everyone and anyone can take part in Tour de Devon. Taking on this challenge is a great opportunity to get on your bike, explore our beautiful county at your own pace and help Hospiscare provide vital care to patients and their families across the local area – making every mile worth the effort!”
Julie Wakley, manager of our specialist palliative care ward in Exeter, added: “All our nurses and doctors are immensely grateful for the support of Paul and Abby and all the Tour de Devon cyclists. We’re a local charity for local people and without the incredible fundraising support from communities across Exeter, Mid and East Devon, we simply wouldn’t be able to provide care for patients with terminal illnesses when they need it most.
“From us all at Hospiscare, thank you to all the riders and to everyone that helps make our work possible!”
