A PETERSFIELD boy has cycled to Paris to raise money for his three-year-old cousin, Ralph, who is paralysed from the waist down.
Charlie Jones (12) cycled 360km from Caen to Paris with his father Ed. They began their challenge last Monday, July 19, and finished on Friday.
The hot weather added to the challenge, but Charlie and Ed successfully finished the ride, which is raising money for a specialised trike for Ralph.
“It was great to spend that time with Charlie,” said Ed.
“We cycled along the River Seine and got to see some wonderful scenery. The French people were lovely.”
Ed admitted the hot weather was far from ideal.
“I had hoped it would not be so hot,” he said.
“We were okay until about 11.30 in the morning, but in the middle of the day we had to stop pretty much every kilometre as it was so hot.
“We were exposed to the sun and the heat, so we stopped at cafes to have a rest and then cycled more in the evenings.
“We had some very nice comments from the French people.
“I was super impressed with Charlie’s determination to do it and how he wanted to keep on going when things were tough.
“He fell over his handlebar once, but it didn’t stop him.”
Charlie, who is a student at Churcher’s College, decided to take on the challenge after seeing Ralph’s twin brother cycling. He became aware of how Ralph was unable to experience this joy.
“Charlie said he wanted to cycle to Paris and do it for Ralph,” added Ed.
For Ralph, having equipment, such as a therapy trike, can help him exercise and gain a sense of normality through rehabilitation. It can also help him feel independent.
Specialised trikes can cost around £2,500 or more. Ralph’s parents were keen to buy one for him, but Charlie decided to take control and find a way to contribute towards the specialised trike for Ralph.
Charlie and Ed have already raised more than £3,000 for Ralph. Their JustGiving page is still accepting donations.
Anyone who would like to donate should visit www.justgiving.
com/fundraising/pariscycle2021