Andy Manning, a passionate long-distance cyclist from Brent Knoll, is gearing up for an incredible challenge—cycling 3,000 miles across the United States. His journey, starting on Friday, 7 March, in San Francisco, California, aims to raise £9,000 for Cure Parkinson’s, a charity dedicated to funding research for a cure. Inspired by his close friend Julie Evans, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2019, Andy hopes to complete the ride in under two months, finishing in St Augustine, Florida.
A Cyclist with a Mission
Andy is no stranger to endurance cycling, having previously conquered the Land’s End to John O’Groats route. However, this challenge presents a new level of difficulty. Training has been tough due to bad weather and illness, but Andy remains positive about the adventure ahead.
One aspect of the journey he’s particularly excited about is riding through the wild west. “I grew up watching John Wayne and Clint Eastwood films and reading Westerns, something I shared with my mother, who passed away last year,” Andy shared. “So when I reach Texas, I’ll be thinking of her.”
Why Cure Parkinson’s?
For Andy, raising funds for Cure Parkinson’s is deeply personal. His friend Julie, along with a former rugby team-mate, has been affected by the condition. “This is something positive I can do to support Julie and others living with Parkinson’s,” he explained.
Living with Parkinson’s: Julie’s Journey
Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition with over 40 symptoms, including tremors, stiffness, chronic pain, and depression. When Julie was diagnosed, she struggled to come to terms with the news. “All other illnesses I’d had before could be treated with surgery, rest, physiotherapy, or antibiotics,” she said. “But when my neurologist told me there was no cure, I was devastated.”
Despite the challenges, Julie has found ways to manage her condition. “Now, five years later, I’ve learned to plan my days, manage my medication, and make time for exercise and social activities,” she said. “Having an active social life improves my energy levels and mood.”
Julie’s Support for Andy’s Ride
Julie is thrilled about Andy’s fundraising efforts and is doing everything she can to help. “I was delighted when Andy asked if I’d be happy for Cure Parkinson’s to be the beneficiary of his fundraising,” she said. “We must find a cure for this life-changing disease, so I’m reaching out to everyone I know to donate—no matter the amount.”
Cure Parkinson’s: The Charity’s Mission
Helen Matthews, chief executive of Cure Parkinson’s, expressed gratitude for Andy and Julie’s support. “Fundraising is critical to help us achieve our goal,” she said. “Our mission is to cure Parkinson’s, and we can only do that with the support of incredible people like Andy and Julie.”
Andy Manning’s 3,000-mile cycling challenge is not just a test of endurance but a powerful act of support for those affected by Parkinson’s. His determination to raise funds and awareness, inspired by Julie’s strength, is a testament to the importance of community and perseverance. As Andy embarks on this journey, every donation brings us one step closer to finding a cure for Parkinson’s.
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