Man Cycles 85 Miles for Niece, Forgets He Owns No Bike
Charity Ride for Leukaemia Patient Eliyah Sparks Community Support
A determined uncle hatched an 85-mile fundraising plan for his niece’s leukaemia battle, only to discover a crucial detail: he didn’t own a bicycle.
Unexpected Challenge for a Cause
Callum, from Sandiacre, Derbyshire, conceived the idea spontaneously to support his four-year-old niece, Eliyah, who was diagnosed with leukaemia on April 28th. The diagnosis, described by the family as a “massive shock,” came “almost overnight.”
Callum admitted his primary training for the August 1st ride from Nottingham’s Queen’s Medical Centre to Skegness involved his daily commute to work in Derby. After purchasing a second-hand bike via social media, he stated, Hopefully it will do the job.
Family Rallying for Young Eliyah
Eliyah, a vibrant four-year-old, is known for her “sassy” and talkative nature, enjoying horses and dancing. Her grandmother, Kelly, 45, from Wollaton, Nottinghamshire, recounted the suddenness of the diagnosis, which followed lethargy and nosebleeds.
“You just don’t expect it. You just don’t expect to be told that your four-year-old granddaughter has got cancer, it was a massive shock.”
—Kelly, Eliyah’s Grandmother
The family has been overwhelmed by community support. We’ve had amazing support, the community has really come forward, we’ve had so many people offer support and this is so important.
Kelly added that Eliyah has begun a two-year chemotherapy treatment, with hopes she will soon return to her usual spirited self.
Community Spirit Fuels the Ride
Originally a solo endeavour, Callum’s ride now includes a friend, and a welcoming party is planned. His ultimate wish for the event is for Eliyah herself to be present to witness the outpouring of support.
Childhood leukaemia diagnoses in the UK have remained relatively stable, with approximately 500 children diagnosed each year. The Macmillan Cancer Support notes that early detection and treatment significantly improve outcomes, highlighting the importance of fundraising efforts like Callum‘s (Macmillan Cancer Support, 2024).
