Mark’s 200-mile cycle challenge to save sight

Following successful NHS cataract treatment, Mark Greenwood from Norfolk is set to embark on a gruelling 200-mile cycle challenge to raise vital funds to help others facing avoidable blindness in poorer parts of the world.

Delighted by the NHS cataract treatment he received at the SpaMedica clinic in Norwich last year, CBM supporter Mark is planning to complete his “Sea to See” fundraising cycle ride from Portsmouth to Norfolk in one day. 

He explains:

“I’m thrilled that my sight has improved, and grateful that I can do things like this now. The whole process, from my initial referral to coming out of surgery, took around two months – that was one of the things that I was amazed by, it was so fantastic. Even the surgery was just 15 minutes! I don’t take it for granted.”

“It’s spurred me on to raise money so that those in other countries, who don’t have the same access to high levels of care that I had, can receive treatment.

My surgery has improved my life, and for others in these remote locations, it must be life-changing too. I was particularly struck by the story of a grandfather called Paul in Zimbabwe, who had to live with cataracts for years, becoming unable to work. The nearest eye hospital was 7 hours away and his family couldn’t even afford the bus fare to get there, let alone the cost of treatment. CBM made it possible for him to have his sight restored.

For me, it was so easy, it’s on the NHS and I don’t have to worry, so wouldn’t it be great if I could help a few other people who don’t have a clinic on the doorstep?”

Describing the cycling challenge, he adds: “This is a 200-mile cycle ride called Sea to See (Coast to Coast) that I’ll be embarking on with two friends. We’ll start on the south coast near Portsmouth and ride up to the north coast of Norfolk. I’ve done a charity ride before, which was 140 miles, so 200 will be tough. But I’m pretty determined.”

Mark’s cycling challenge will take place on Saturday 29^th April 2023. Go to Mark’s JustGiving page to find out more or donate!

Could you take on a fundraising challenge for CBM? Find out more.