Buzz Coates of distributor Norbain SD has raised more than £10,000 for CLIC Sargent, a charity dedicated to caring for children with cancer, by cycling 500 miles in five days.
Having been struck with leukaemia in November 2002 and spending six months in hospital having chemotherapy, Buzz was fully aware of the impact the condition has, on the sufferers, and on the family. To mark his fifth year in remission, he wanted to do something special to raise money for children suffering with cancer/leukaemia. "I had always enjoyed cycling, but during my treatments, my consultant gave me Lance Armstrong’s book to read," says Buzz. "It really inspired me and I decided to combine my love of cycling with raising money for such a worthy cause."<br><br>After rallying support from family, friends, colleagues and suppliers alike, Buzz set off on his 500 mile marathon. Starting at his home in Malmesbury, he completed 100 miles every day, stopping at Norbain’s Warrington, Blackpool, Preston, Heywood and Ashton offices until he reached the Norbain office in Winnersh, near Reading, on the fifth day. "Norbain had been very good to me and my family through an extremely difficult time, so linking in all the offices was an important part of the journey for me," he adds.<br><br>"The support I have received has been fantastic," says Buzz. "Alun John and the board have supported me throughout and I was even loaned a support vehicle which was always nearby in case of emergency. Thanks go to the Norbain staff for all their good wishes and welcomes at each office. A number of suppliers were also very generous; thanks must go to Bosch, Dedicated Micros, Samsung Electronics, Extreme, Xtralis, BPT, Paxton, PAC, Sony, Raytec, JVC, Genie CCTV and Dallmeier."<br><br>In all, Buzz raised £10,800 for CLIC Sargent who was delighted to receive the money. It will be putting it towards schemes such as grants, holidays, specialist youth services and help lines that all aid children and their families during and after treatment for leukaemia. <br><br>"It was a wonderful feeling to raise the money," says Buzz. "I’ve got a few ideas for further fundraising events, but I’m keeping them under my hat for the moment!"
