From touch rugby to rowing and cycling to pilates, a Bedfordian is attempting a daunting challenge in aid of charity, MOVE Against Cancer.
To play 24 sports in 24 hours. You can donate to this challenge here.
MOVE Against Cancer’s CEO, David Henderson is the man in the hot seat, and he’ll be joined at various points by people impacted by cancer as he takes on the task of showing how the simple act of movement can make all the difference.
“At MOVE Against Cancer we know exercise – all movement – is one of the most important things anyone diagnosed with cancer can do to enhance wellbeing and improve health outcomes both during and after treatment”, says David.
“We know not enough people are getting access to the support and information they need.
“Our vision is for every single person impacted by cancer to live an active and fulfilling life and this challenge is about helping to change that”, he adds.
Beginning at 9am on Saturday, 30 May, David will first attend ‘5k Your Way’, MOVE Against Cancer’s movement-based cancer support group based at Bedford Park, joining over 130 groups across the UK at designated park runs.
“It’s wonderful to be starting with my local 5KYW group in Bedford. Their attitude and support is what this challenge is all about. 5k Your Way is also the perfect place to start when you begin moving against cancer”.
Sport through the night
He’ll then move across Bedford every hour, taking on different sports at different venues, finishing at 9am the next day (Sunday) at Jubilee Park.
“I’m being joined throughout the day by friends, family and colleagues ready to get moving to support people living with and beyond cancer.
“Our lives have all been impacted by cancer in different ways and I can’t wait to get active together to showcase why movement matters.
“And I’m looking forward to meeting and moving with some new people along the way. Over 24 hours we’ll walk, run, row, cycle, play cricket, hit a golf ball, kick a football…”
And many more besides!
David hopes that by raising awareness and funds, his challenge will help support more people to move against cancer.
He’s inviting people to donate to his fundraising page, sponsor a sport or get involved in some of the activities he’s trying.
“By getting involved in this challenge and supporting our Moving More Together campaign, you’re helping us ensure every individual impacted by cancer receives the necessary resources and support to engage in and maintain an active lifestyle”, adds David.
The charity challenge is also being supported by various organisations in Bedford, including ‘Better’, the operations behind Bedford’s GLL-branded leisure centres, plus Bedford Cricket Club and Bedford Towers.
“I can’t wait to try rowing which I’ve never done and also the ultimate frisbee with lots of family and friends should be fun, all moving together!”
David’s 24-hour challenge will be the first of many, and MOVE Against Cancer is launching a fundraising pack so that others can set up their own 24-hour challenge.
To donate to the challenge, you can follow the link here.
Find out more about the work of MOVE Against Cancer here.
