Personal trainer James Beeson, 41, has decided to take on the mammoth challenge of cycling nearly 1,000 miles across nine days from the bottom of England to the top of Scotland to raise funds Winston’s Wish.
With a fundraising target that has already raised thousands of pounds for Winston’s Wish, as well as regional charity Simon Says, James is keen to raise awareness and funds for a cause that is close to his heart.
James explains, “I had just turned seven when I lost my dad in a car accident on the way home from his works Christmas party. Just five years later just as I started secondary school, I also lost my mum to cancer. I know from personal experience just how difficult it is to cope with grief, as a young child and especially as you get older.
“I was one of the fortunate ones in that my aunt and uncle took me in but there was no professional support easily available to kids in my situation.
“When I was younger, I was just quiet but as I grew older, I found myself getting more and more angry and found myself in lots of tough circumstances.”
How do you learn to become an adult when you’ve lost two parents?”
James Beeson
James initially decided to undertake the Ride Across Britain challenge of cycling from Land’s End to John O’Groats when a friend asked for his support to train. He says, “I thought that if I’m going to take part in the cycle then I wanted to do it for a charity that was making such a difference.
“Simon Says is a local charity and Winston’s Wish supports grieving kids all over the UK and they continue to support bereaved young people right to the age of 25 which I think is a really critical stage, especially when you’ve suffered bereavement. You’re trying to navigate lots of circumstances. You are expected to be an adult and grow up but you start questioning everything and struggle to fit into a normal world.”
As well as taking part in an incredible challenge that will see James cycle roughly 110 miles each day as he complete the huge 9-day cycle, the occasion will also mark James’ first visit to Scotland! He says, “I’m looking forward to seeing different parts of the countryside. It’s one thing to be driving from place to place but by bike it’s a completely different experience. I’m really looking forward to all the views as I go. The event is really well organised with a proper route and overnights in key location complete with hot food and conveniences.
“It’s also really crucial for headspace too. Running a business and having a family means life is always busy and dealing with your own head can be tough. I’m at peace on my bike, it’s my time to wind down and switch off and allow myself to have that headspace.
“I am pleased to be raising funds to help support a charity that directs gives advice and support to grieving children and young people. I know just how important it is to get help. I still often struggle especially on memorable days or events but have much better systems in place due to years of working on myself with help from loved ones and many different experienced professionals over the years.
“I want to help children who are in a similar situation to me and give them a better chance of coming out it stronger.”
If you are interested in finding out more about James and his incredible journey or to support him in his venture, then please view his Just Giving page which includes updates on his progress.
Fundraise for Winston’s Wish
Feel inspired by James’ cycling challenge? Why not join #TeamWinston and take on a fundraising challenge in support of bereaved children and young people.
Run, walk, cycle, swim or even design your own fundraiser and help raise vital funds that help ensure no child grieves alone.