‘Living, Not Dying’

This is me with Richard as we came out of St James Hospital in March 2022. He’d just been told that his cancer had returned, and this was the moment that he decided it wasn’t about preparing to die, it was about living your best life, the way you want to be remembered.

By July he had ridden over 2,600 miles and visited 122 churches, before an operation that removed a 10cm tumour from his groin.

Richard lost his fight against cancer in June 2023 but left us a legacy of strength and determination. It gave me impetus to carry on and finish the novel I started when he was diagnosed. And to support those going through life challenges to write down and reflect on their experiences.

When he was finishing his challenge I wrote a short account of 5 of the first churches we visited.

‘Towers and Spires’ melds accounts of Kings and forgotten ancient buildings into the story of a wife and carer coming to terms with a loved one’s impending death.

It’s an emotional ride, and you can download and read it free, here:

The Church Walk Challenge

Now I can’t ride a motorcycle, and my bicycle rusts in the shed, but I can walk, and that’s what I am doing. Walking and writing – both are good for the soul, especially one that’s grieving.

My Church Walk Challenge has taken me to churches and castles all over Yorkshire, and some in Devon.

We’ve raised another £2k for Teenage Cancer Trust too.

It’s about discovering what’s down those paths and narrow roads. It’s about history. And most important of all, it’s about who you are.

Follow me on Facebook for stories, journaling and the next challenge