Blind woman to cycle 14 miles for cancer charity

A blind woman from Gloucestershire is taking on a 14.5 mile (23.3km) cycling challenge in memory of her mother and brother, both of whom died from cancer.

Carrie Thould, 56, from Cam, will complete the distance on her seated elliptical trainer as part of a fundraising event for Cancer Research UK.

She has invited friends, family, and members of the local community to join her for the challenge, which will also feature a bake sale, music, and a tombola to help boost donations.

"I just felt I had to do something. Cancer is so prevalent, and we really do need to try and beat it if we can," she said.

Ms Thould lost her brother David to lung cancer in October 2020, aged 59, and her mother Val to liver cancer in May 2022, aged 88.

"After losing them, I had this overwhelming feeling that I needed to do something to help others going through cancer," she said.

In March 2024, she bought a seated elliptical trainer to improve her fitness.

"I've cycled on it every day since," she said. "That's when I had the idea to turn it into a fundraiser for Cancer Research UK."

Ms Thould was born blind due to a rare condition called septo-optic dysplasia, which affects the development of the optic nerve and surrounding structures.

Despite the challenges, she is determined to complete the full 14.5 mile distance -the equivalent of travelling from her community centre in Cam to Gloucester Cathedral.

"I just want everyone to enjoy the day, but also to raise money for a good cause," she said.

So far, her JustGiving page has raised more than £600 towards her £1,000 goal.

"I'd be delighted to reach my target," she added.

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