Norfolk cyclist gears up for his biggest challenge yet to raise money for NNUH charity

Chris Hamlin and Mark Colman

A Norfolk cyclist will be taking on the challenge of a lifetime this June to raise funds for the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital charity, as a way to say thank you for the care his son has received.

Chris Hamlin, who is from Norwich, will be cycling to five capital cities over seven days, taking in London, Paris, Luxembourg City, Brussels, Amsterdam and eventually finishing back at the NNUH. Chris will be joined by his friend Mark and they are hoping to raise a minimum of £5,000.

The funds raised will go towards the Jenny Lind Children’s Department, where Chris’ son, James, 2, received treatment for his respiratory condition. With the money raised, the hospital will be able to purchase additional vapotherm units, which provide support for patients of all ages experiencing trouble with breathing.

Chris, 37, said: “James has had multiple trips to the Jenny Lind Children’s Department for his medical condition and we wanted to do something that would show our appreciation to the staff for the exemplary care that he has always received.  Saying thank you doesn’t seem enough, so I decided that we should try to raise some money to help with the care and facilities for other families like ourselves.”

In total, the European adventure will cover 1000 miles in just seven days, which means the pair will have to cycle approximately 140 miles per day.

Although Chris is a keen cyclist and CEO of local cycling company, AU cycling, he has never cycled this far in a day and admits that this is his biggest challenge yet. “It’s going to be a very tough journey. However knowing that what we are doing will help other families avoid the pain my family went through will definitely help Mark and I stay motivated throughout!”

Louise Cook, NNUH Fundraising Manager said: “Chris is certainly taking on an epic ride, and we are so grateful for him raising money for us. Many babies and children from all over Norfolk experience the care of our Jenny Lind Team every day so it is wonderful that Chris’s fundraising will help local patients.”

Chris and Mark are hoping to raise as much money as possible for the Jenny Lind Children’s hospital. To support them on their big cycling challenge across Europe, please visit: www.justgiving.com/auwheels

The pair is also looking for a support driver to join the fundraising adventure. If you would like to volunteer your time, equipment or support, please contact them on info@auwheels.com