A super-fit student raised £5,000 for charity after tackling an epic bike ride to the Arctic Circle.
Sarah Osborn completed the unsupported, ultra-endurance NorthCape4000 event for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
It is a charity close to her heart as baby nephew Joseph receives care at Milton.
Sarah took on the ride to raise funds and awareness and her monstrous mission began on 20th July, starting from the Italian city of Rovereto.
She then stopped at various checkpoints – the German cities of Munich and Berlin, Copenhagen, in Denmark, and Rovaniemi, in Finland – before arriving at North Cape, on the Norwegian coast and the most northerly point in Europe.
“It was the hardest thing I’ve done, or probably ever will do, but also an incredible, unforgettable experience,” said the 24-year-old, who is studying medicine at Swansea University.
“It was tougher than I expected and, in some respects, I wasn’t prepared. Tackling three to four thousand feet of elevation, cycling for hour upon hour, was challenging, to say the least.
“However, it also gave me an incredible opportunity to see some truly breathtaking places, cycling alongside rivers, next to mountains, green fields and pine forests and surrounded by animals.
“I saw beautiful sunrises and sunsets, went through the most stunning alpine villages and experienced the real beauty of Europe.
“It was also wonderful to see and witness the kindness of others on my trip.
“Everyone, including fellow cyclists and locals, was so supportive and kept me going during the tough times. I saw the best of humanity from complete strangers and that’s something I’ll never forget.”
Joseph was born last September and has Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) – a rare condition where the left side of the heart does not develop properly and is too small. He has already had open-heart surgery twice and parents Francis and Annabel, who live in Royston, are being supported by EACH.
Sarah, who hails from Wiltshire, added: “I was constantly thinking about Joseph.
“He inspired and motivated me every step of the way and my brother sent me lots of photos, which gave me the spur I needed.
“I’m so pleased to have raised what I have and been taken aback by everyone’s love and support.
“EACH has been there for my family, providing much-needed stability at times of uncertainty, and given us all so much happiness, despite the trauma of Joseph’s condition. We’re forever grateful.”
Sarah’s fundraising total is now over £5,000. To show your support and sponsor her, head here.
“Sarah’s an absolute star,” said Anna Bruce, EACH’s Senior Community Fundraiser for Suffolk and East Essex.
“She absolutely smashed it and, quite rightly, must be on cloud nine right now.
“Everyone here was rooting for her every step of the way.
“The pictures look amazing and I enjoyed reading her blog posts.
“It sounds like an incredible challenge and experience and that was reflected in Sarah’s fundraising, which went from strength to strength. A huge well done from everyone at EACH.”
