FATHER COMPLETES 90 MILE CYCLE IN MEMORY OF BELOVED SON

THE father of a young Scotsman who died unexpectedly has completed an incredible cycle of over 90 miles to raise money for an Edinburgh charity close to his family’s heart.

Christopher Nelson tragically passed away in 2015 while in Amsterdam, aged just 24. His family, from Eskbank, Midlothian, have since been heavily involved in fundraising efforts for Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity and have collectively raised nearly £25,000.

Now, his father, Scott, along with some friends, has cycled between Scotland’s two largest cities to raise over £2,000 for the charity as part of Pedal for Scotland’s recent Big Belter cycle.

With a photograph of his beloved son Christopher attached to his bike for motivation, Scott powered through to complete the gruelling challenge.

Christopher’s mother, Donna, started collecting for the charity at his funeral and has since completed Tough Mudder as well as arranging other events including a 10,000ft skydive in memory of her beloved son.

Scott said: “The cycle went well, in the fact we all finished in one piece, relatively.

“It was tough at times due to the weather and what felt like the endless climbing of hills! But we did it. So far, we’ve raised £2,337.94.

“I had photos of Christopher on my bike, something that Donna did on her cycle challenge, which when I was really struggling gave me the determination to get up those hills and not to get off or give in as he was there with me every pedal of the way.”

The cycle wasn’t without trials and tribulations as Scott’s friend, Neil, crashed with 10 miles to go while descending a hill but emerged relatively unscathed.

Scott continued: “I got really emotional once I turned the corner and saw the sign for Edinburgh and knew the finishing line was in sight and was so proud crossing the finishing line for my laddie.

“It was a real moment of togetherness for the four of us who completed the challenge as we realised what we had just done and achieved. We were so proud to finish the challenge in memory of Christopher.

“ECHC was Christopher’s chosen charity and supported him when he was in hospital as a boy.

“We’re so grateful to everyone for their continued support in helping us keep Christopher’s memory alive, and in aid of such a fantastic cause. It means everything to us.”

Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity supports and complements the work of the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in the capital. The money the family have raised so far will go towards funding an improved bedside environment at the new hospital when it opens at Little France.

This will include items such as WiFi and Smart TVs which act as games consoles, television, music device and lighting controls whilst providing access to Skype all in one device.

The improved bedside environment will help create a personal feel for families during their stay and help to reduce stress and anxiety for children staying at the hospital.

Sue Diamond, Community Fundraising Manager at ECHC, said: “We are so grateful and honoured to be chosen as Christopher’s charity and want to pass on our biggest congratulations to him. Everyone is so proud of Scott and the whole of Team Nelson who have done so much.

“The money raised will have a huge impact on the lives of young patients and their families and make a phenomenal difference during their time at the new hospital.

“The family have done so many admirable and amazing things and the money raised from with be a massive help to us”

To donate to Scott’s fundraising efforts, visit: https://teamechc.everydayhero.com/uk/teamnelson