Neil Millen, a director at Specsavers Bideford, is preparing to run the Grand Western Canal after being inspired by his best friend’s daughter, 15-year-old Daisy McGowan, who has been battling acute leukaemia for two years. Millen will run 13.1 miles on July 19 to raise money for Cure Leukaemia.
Personal inspiration
Millen said: "Scott is one of my best friends. We’ve cycled together in lots of places and I’ve been his training partner ahead of his epic France ride. After Daisy’s diagnosis, it’s been a tough time for Scott and the family, but Daisy’s now doing fantastically and is due to finish her treatment in October. I wanted to do something appropriate to raise money for the charity, and the Grand Western Canal goes past the back of Scott’s house, so it seemed an appropriate place to do my run."
Millen, who has never run a half marathon before, noted that the canal is slightly shorter than the distance, so he will add extra running to ensure he covers the full 13.1 miles. He added: "As well as seeing what Daisy’s been through, my daughter’s best friend battled leukaemia and my daughter was diagnosed with Graves’ disease, so I’ve seen too many poorly children. But with the right treatment, my daughter and her friend have done so well. In fact, my daughter has just handed in her PhD thesis – on cancer research."
Friend's epic Tour de France challenge
Meanwhile, Daisy’s father Scott McGowan is tackling all 21 stages of the Tour de France route – 3,333km and 54,450m of ascent – as part of a group of amateur cyclists, also for Cure Leukaemia. Scott, who lives near Tiverton, aims to complete the route on July 19, one week ahead of the professional riders. Millen’s canal run is scheduled for the same day.
Scott said: "I’m really grateful to Neil for what he’s doing. Every penny we can raise for Cure Leukaemia really will make a difference. Watching Daisy go through treatment has shown me how tough this disease is and how vital new research and clinical trials are. No child, no family, should have to face what she and so many others are going through. Every mile I ride will be for her — and for everyone affected by leukaemia."
Fundraising impact
All donations from both events will fund vital research, clinical trials and life-saving treatments for leukaemia patients. To make a donation, visit https://shorturl.at/F1FFh.
