Both coming from Hall Green, B'ham - I've been lucky enough to know Lee (the Mule) Whillock since our school days - albeit we went to different schools.  Unsurprisingly, assisted by his physique (6'6"/ c.18st) and sporting ability Lee began playing rugby in his 20's, joining Edwardian RFC in Solihull, where he soon established himself as a 1st XV 2nd Row.   As an imposing talisman player on the pitch and a fun loving, engaging storyteller off it - Lee became a popular chap at the club during his c.20yr playing career inc. many memorable appearances in the over 35's VETS team.   It was a hammer blow to every one of Lee's friends and ex-teammates at Edwardian RFC when in early 2016 he was diagnosed with a rare cancer (NET) on his spine.  After months of treatment (during which Lee was doggedly determined to stay as fit as possible by walking and cycling whenever he could) in Sept 2016 he received news that his tumours had reduced to almost nothing - so myself and a few of his ex-teammates all went out to celebrate.  Lee looked and acted as though he had just been on holiday for a month - remarkable!   We decided to mark this by raising money for a charity close to Lee's heart by doing a challenging mountain trail-walk and cycle through Wales, north to south.  Plans were made and the event set for Whit-week 2017. Training walks/rides kicked off in early-Oct inc. Archie, Lee's 14yr old son (just 6'2") and a credit to his father.  A few of us invested in new bikes, kit and lycra apparel (MAMIL) befitting the challenge.  All was going well when early in the NY Lee received some cruel news, his tumours had returned.   He has now begun a second phase of chemo and with the help of his family and friends has once again to find the super-strength of mind and body to overcome this adversity.  Obviously, we still hope Lee and Archie will be able to join in some part of 'Mule's Comeback Tour' challenge - even if it's to have a beer with his mates to mark the end of the event.   

In Sept, the team fundraising & awareness comes to a head when we enter the Birmingham Velo - a 100mile equivalent cycle marathon around Birmingham and surrounding areas.   Easy - just 6-7hrs in the saddle! 

Please give generously and help me and the small group of Lee's friends and ex-teammates make a befitting contribution to the work of the NET Patient Foundation who are helping Lee and his family through this ordeal.  

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thank you :-)