Member Article

Cyclist rides the height of Everest to fight testicular cancer

A cancer survivor from Bristol fights back as he looks to cycle the height of Mount Everest.

Robert Berry was diagnosed during a random screening programme with testicular cancer at the age of 35. He immediately underwent surgery to remove the tumour, but the cancer had spread to Robert’s lung and doctors expressed that he was lucky to be alive.

Rob bravely battled on and has now been clear of the illness for 15 years. To raise awareness of testicular cancer, he has set himself the challenge to cycle the height of Mount Everest in his ‘Near Naked Kit’ covering 150 miles in the Italian Alps in just 17 hours.

Robert Berry said: “I am an avid cyclist but this will be a physical and mental challenge even for me. Despite this, I am determined to raise awareness so others don’t have to go through what I did.”

In preparation of the fundraising event, Rob has had to train relentlessly but thanks to his work colleagues, not alone.

Some of Rob’s colleagues at leading housebuilding firm, Persimmon Homes were keen to get behind him by undertaking a practice ride to help Rob to prepare.

The team at Persimmon Homes Severn Valley cycled 101 miles from Bridgwater to Cheltenham in an attempt to raise awareness and to support Rob.

Rob said: “I want to say a huge thank you to everyone that took part, supported and donated to help make our ride possible.

“The weather was good and the cycling was tough, but we didn’t lose anyone along the way.”

Steve Roche, managing director for Persimmon Homes Severn Valley, said: “We were only too pleased to ride with Robert along some of the most scenic routes in the South West to support this cause.

“We wish him all the best and will continue to support him throughout his preparations, good luck Rob!”

Robert Berry will cycle the height of Everest on September 23rd, 2017.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Stuart .