I’m on a mission to defeat cancer.

For the past three years my husband and I have been support crew for our daughter. Paige, and my brother, John, ride in memory of his granddaughter, Emma. 

The hundreds of MACA riders each with their own reasons for riding are an inspiration, and after the 2025 October ride, I thought.. I want to be a part of this in a bigger way.. a part of this community.. SO, I dusted off my bike and have been cycling for 4 months and here I am signing up for my first ride. 

I am 67 years of age and at 53 had my own journey with Thyroid cancer. My life has been touched by the Big C, a disease that comes in so many variants. My mother, father-in-law, great niece, brother-in-law, brother, friends and this Christmas, my long time friend, Jeffrey Parvin lost his three year fight. Every time I am on my bike I think of Jeff and his battle. How strong and good humoured he was through out and how he would ring his bell when he and his mates rode past my home of a morning. Secretly, I’m super nervous! But, I will ride with Jeff in my heart and mind, and know that his strength will see me through the 200km. 

I am so proud to be a team member of the Tyred and Forked crew, and honoured to be riding along side my daughter, and brother. What an amazing bunch of humans! If you see me out and about.. give me a shout of encouragement.. better still donate! Nellie