Ride of thanks by Perth grandfather for SCGH
A former patient with stage four terminal brain cancer rode his bike from Bunbury to Perth over the weekend to raise funds and pay tribute to staff at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital.
Despite Gordon MacDonald being diagnosed with stage four terminal brain cancer in January 2022 and given 12 to 14 months to live, he was determined to make this journey and raise funds via the Charlies Foundation.
After 30 rounds of radiation, 10 rounds of chemotherapy and brain surgery Mac is still fighting strong wanted to pay thanks to the health professionals who saved him.
“When I decided to try and raise funds for Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital it started out being all about money,” he said.
“But now it’s about raising awareness of this terrible thing and about trying to say thank you and raise money for research.”
Affectionally known as Mac, he is a former London Metropolitan and Sussex Police Service Officer, with an international network of friends and family who were ready to step up and support him along the difficult journey.
“I am one of the lucky ones,” he said. “I have so much support and love around me from my wife and my family and friends I just feel so lucky.
The staff at Charlies have just been incredible and have always felt so supported by everyone.”
Mac began his bike ride from Koombana Bay in Bunbury on Sunday morning at 6.30am on Sunday 26 March, surrounded by some dedicated friends.
Conquering the first leg by 3pm Sunday he spent the night in Mandurah to rest before taking off and completing the last leg alongside his wife, friends and grandchildren.
He arrived in Perth on Monday 27 March at 2pm.
“I feel very humbled by the whole thing,” he said.
“Knowing you’re going to die is a hell of a thing but I’m not ready to give up, I’m not scared of dying and I want to live as long as I can.”
Gordon’s fundraising has already reached an amazing $23,000 and donations can be made via this link Mac's Bike Ride for Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital - Charlies Foundation (external site)