Dr Jacquelyn Smithson is raising money as she begins her inspirational challenge
A hospital consultant based at Hull Royal Infirmary has embarked on a challenge to cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats to raise money for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society. Dr Jacquelyn Smithson, who is a Consultant in Gastroenterology, is joined by her wife Sarah Jones and her best friend Adrian.
The team has chosen a route which takes in The Lizard, the most southerly point of mainland England, and Dunnet Head, the most northerly point of mainland Scotland. They set off yesterday (Tuesday, September 2) and aim to complete the task by September 24.
Dr Smithson has MS herself and has to use a wheelchair much of the time following a relapse four years ago. She will use a special three-wheeled trike throughout the epic journey.
She said: “The three of us are setting out to raise money for research into Multiple Sclerosis. We’ve raised £5,000 already and we’ve been blown away by the generosity and good wishes of so many people who have supported us. Every penny we raise will go directly to the MS Society. No amount is too small. But please, if you can, give generously.”
The NHS Humber Health Partnership said how Dr Smithson is a well-loved and highly respected member of staff. During the pandemic in 2021, she experienced a relapse which left her with no feeling in her legs and unable to walk. However, she undertook months and months of physiotherapy to try to regain some movement.
Sarah said: “She wasn’t willing to sit back and accept her fate so she worked at recovery over months and months, during the added challenge of Covid-19. After what seemed like an endless journey of physiotherapy and incremental gains, the feeling has still not come back.
“But Jacquie has been lucky enough to see enough improvement to able to walk short distances with the aid of crutches and has started to rebuild some muscle, just enough, in fact, to turn the wheels of a bike! Although she can no longer cycle a two-wheeler, we have found that a trike is possible.”
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You can donate via their JustGiving Page. The trio are also providing updates as they undertake the challenge.
Yesterday, the team posted: “Day 1 completed! Weather stayed fine and we had lovely views of the coast all the way from Land’s End over to The Lizard. The route was challenging in places and included a short trip across Loe Bar Beach which was interesting!
“We also had a lovely view of St Michael’s Mount. Bit tired now, but nothing a good nights sleep can’t cure we hope. And then off we go for day 2 – Helston to St Austell.”