Bishop Lee celebrates five years cancer-free with sponsored 100-mile bike ride

Rt Revd Lee Rayfield, Bishop of Swindon, is taking part in a sponsored cycle race next month as he marks five years of being in remission from cancer.

Bishop Lee, who was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma in 2014, was told earlier this year that he would no longer need regular check-ups after being clear of the illness for five years.

He is now hoping to raise money towards more effective treatment of the condition by taking part in RideLondon-Surrey100 on 4 August.

A keen cyclist, Bishop Lee will join thousands as they follow a 100-mile route through the capital and into Surreys stunning countryside, on a route made famous by the worlds best cyclists at the London 2012 Olympics.

Bishop Lee said: Earlier this year, my annual blood tests and examination at the Great Western Hospital confirmed that I had now been in remission from Hodgkin Lymphoma for 5 years.

I realised this was a watershed but when told I would not need any more check-ups by my Consultant Haematologist I was surprised how I felt. It marked the close of one of the most memorable seasons of my life.

To express my gratitude and support the development of more effective treatments for Lymphoma and other blood cancers I will be raising funds for the charity Bloodwise by taking part in RideLondon-Surrey100.

I have been given the target of 400. Although I do not wish to discourage generosity, I would love to raise this by many people making small donations of 5 the cost of a coffee and cake - gift-aided where possible.

In 2014, Bishop Lee cycled from John OGroats to Lands End, raising more than 10,000 to help train new leaders in the Diocese of Bristols link churches in Uganda.

To sponsor Bishop Lee, visit his Virgin Giving page.

First published 25th July 2019
Powered by Church Edit