Red Cross Blogs

Around the country with a dummy

By Guest
July 13, 2010 at 2:51 pm

Darren Mindham is doing work experience here with us in London, and after only one day at the office he’s already writing some fantastic stuff. Here’s his blog about the incredible challenge one first aider is undertaking.

How far would you go? (To raise money for the Red Cross, that is.)

Last Sunday, British Red Cross first aid trainer Dave Silcock began a 2,300 mile cycle journey, which will span from Lands End to John O’Groats. The 68-year-old former nurse from Southville, Bristol, lost his daughter to spina bifida last April, and her passing inspired him to embark on the cycle ride in order to raise awareness and, hopefully, increase Red Cross donations.

Throughout the journey, Dave’s only companion will be Annie, a resuscitation manikin, who’s fastened to the back of his bicycle. Dave said, “What I am looking forward to is following nice cycle paths away from the road or on nice quiet roads. I’m doing it at the beginning of the holiday season so I’m looking forward to meeting people because it’s a little bit eccentric to be carrying Annie.” So, if you see a 68-year-old man hurtling towards you with a resuscitation dummy strapped to his back, feel free to toss him a donation.

Dave, a full time first aid trainer who specialises in teaching first aid for the workplace, said, “I raised £2,000 cycling from Lands End to John O’Groats in 2006, so I’m hoping for at least that amount again this time.” He described the Red Cross as “an absolutely brilliant organisation.”

A self-confessed keep-fit addict, Dave trained rigorously for the challenge. He stretches himself physically by cycling approximately 6,000 miles each year, and attempts two hours of training at minimum before work every day. As a keen member of the Cyclists’ Touring Club (CTC), Dave is also a big fan of the Sustrans National Cycle Network and leapt at the chance to use his hobby to raise money for the Red Cross.

Although losing his daughter was a devastating and traumatic experience for Dave, his steadfast dedication has not wavered, and he should be wholeheartedly commended for his devotion to the Red Cross. He has kept in high-spirits, and said, “I’m going to be staying on campsites and in friends’ gardens, but if there’s not a campsite, I’ll ask a farmer if I can stay in his field. It’s going to be a real boy’s adventure.”

It is always excellent to see individuals exploring new methods of charity fundraising, and, with luck, the originality of his cycling trip – travelling with a first aid manikin strapped to the back of his bike – will inspire others to think up new and exciting ways of contributing to the charity.

Support Dave!

Read more fundraising ideas

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Tags: fundraising ideas, fundraising tips, work experience

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