On 6 June 2007 my son Hayden was born. A few days later my dad, John, fell ill. At first it was diagnosed as a virus much like shingles and so my parents kept away from their first grandchild for fear of passing it on. Weeks went by and dad didn't improve, in fact he got worse. His legs started to give way and it got to the point that he could barely walk. He was admitted to hospital on Thursday 2 August. The following Monday it was confirmed that Dad had a tumour on his lungs which was pressing on his spine. By the Wednesday he was given 6 weeks to live. He died that Saturday, 11 August.

He had such little time with his grandson, whom he clearly adored. This is why we want to raise money for the great work that Macmillan Cancer Support and Marie Curie Cancer care do - to help cancer sufferers like my dad spend quality time with their families. Whilst we are going on a fantastic journey, we won't forget the reason why we are clocking up 350 miles a day. I hope dad will be watching over us as we climb through the Highlands, cross the borders, take in spectacular scenery and meet many people along the way.

Cancer is one of the biggest killers in Britain and affects everyone in some way or another. So I hope you will support us on our adventure and dig deep for these charities.

David