Mike Smith
Mike's cycling challenge from Spain to York!
Fundraising for Age UK York
Story
<p>Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.</p>
<p><span style="color: #333399;">My name is Mike Smith. I live and work in York as a fine-art photographer / lecturer.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333399;">Every week, for around seven years now, I drive about ten people who suffer from dementia / Altzheimer's to and from a 'Dayclub' run by Age UK York.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333399;">Dayclub is rather a misnomer. That implies it's just a casual social gathering - It's so much more than that. For many people it may be the only time they leave their house, especially during the winter months.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333399;">Once there the clients can socialise, have a hot lunch and engage in activities beneficial to their condition.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333399;">As their driver I'm often invited into their homes and (alongside other carers) can often help sort out minor problems.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333399;">To raise some money for Age UK York I've volunteered to do a solo cycle ride from Northern Spain to York (via the Rotterdam / Hull ferry ) - 1000 + miles.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333399;">I'll set off from the Mediterranean coast of Spain on the 7th of May and take 3 to 4 weeks cycling back to York, averaging 50 to 60 miles a day.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333399;">I'll be self-sufficient, camping and staying at small hotels en route.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333399;">Age UK York runs the Dayclub in partnership with the NHS. Due to current changes in the NHS, Age UK will need more funds than ever to keep this service running. </span></p>
<p>Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.</p>
<p>So please dig deep and donate now.</p>