London to Paris – more than a bike ride
Myeloma UK’s Senior Clinical Practice Officer Rhys Owens reflects on taking part in the 10ᵗʰ anniversary London Paris Ride, the generosity that made his journey possible and why the ride is about so much more than the kilometres covered.
The generosity that got me on the saddle
It was an honour and a privilege to be involved in Myeloma UK’s 10th anniversary London Paris (L2P) ride this year. Joining 118 fellow riders in covering 450km over four days to raise money for a very special cause was an inspirational and unforgettable experience.
The vast amount of money raised for Myeloma UK (£371,000 and counting) is a testament to the generosity and kindness shown by our incredible myeloma community.
It was this kind of generosity that allowed me to even participate in the first place. My strong urge to take part in the ride was ever-present since I started working at Myeloma UK in 2023. However, despite being very useful for trips to the local Tesco, I knew my 10-year-old town bike would not be suitable for such an epic journey.
Having explained my predicament to event organiser Maggie Rankin, our Senior Event Development Fundraiser, I was put in touch with Peter Rush, a myeloma patient who had kindly offered to donate his Colnago C40 – affectionately known as the “old girl” – to a budding, bikeless L2P rider like me. Before I knew it, I was thrust into a world of early morning training rides, cycle clips, padded shorts and getting lost in Cambridgeshire countryside. It’s safe to say that the old girl was a reliable companion come rain or shine.
For those who take part, the ride represents so much more than just the money raised. The group consisted of a vast and eclectic mixture of patients, families, carers and healthcare professionals, as well as those working for Myeloma UK and pharmaceutical companies. Seeing the myeloma community come together in a sea of orange tops, sharing stories, experiences and a common goal, was truly amazing to be a part of.
Progress worth pedalling for
The ride is also an incredible reminder of how much treatment for myeloma has progressed over the years. My roommate for the four nights spent in France was riding in memory of his father, who had been diagnosed with myeloma at the age of 39 in the mid-90s. As treatment options were very limited back then, he sadly passed away from myeloma when he was just 43 years old.
Fast forward to 2026 and the outlook for myeloma patients has improved significantly. Average life expectancy has more than quadrupled, and more people are living well with myeloma than ever before. The 19 riders living with myeloma who completed this year’s challenge – two of whom were in their 70s – is an incredible reminder of just how far we have come.
With the money raised from challenges like these, Myeloma UK can ensure that patients are diagnosed earlier, receive the right support and access life-saving treatments.
Along for the ride
Ready to get involved? The London to Brighton Ride takes place in September; you could help us go further, faster for everyone affected by myeloma. Find out more and register today.
Whether you’re a keen cyclist or simply looking for your next challenge, Myeloma UK’s events are a fantastic way to support the myeloma community while being part of something truly special.
