Biker Mike Fenton from Glanworth set off on a trip on August 3rd 2018 from Glanworth and headed to Oslo taking in, Sweden and Finland on the way. With the help of some friends and local businesses has helped raise money for the Mercy Hospital Kids+Teens Appeal by driving 10,000km along the Silver Lining Tour to the North Cap.  

Mike decided to take on the mammoth challenge to raise funds for the Mercy Hospital after he was diagnosed with cancer himself in 2014. Thankfully, his treatment appears to have been successful and he was thrilled to be able to raise some money for the charity.

“It is for a truly great cause. We funded all our own expenses for the trip. Our flights, petrol, accommodation. The Overlanders from Gorey were a huge help and they transported our bikes to Oslo for us. All funds donated will go to the Kids & Teen's fund at Mercy Hospital,” said Mike.  

The group drove for 15 days in total, driving on average 380km per day. Far above the Arctic Circle, the touring bikers drove through the Lofoten Islands with its majestic mountains, deep fjords and squawking seabird colonies. Enjoying only a couple of rest days, Mike with his chief navigator and travel companion Bryan Walsh from Fermoy continued along the Atlantic Ocean road to Trollstigveien and then to Geiranger, Europe’s highest fjord view from a road.

Mike would love to raise €1 for every Kilometre he biked. All funds raised will go towards the Mercy Kids & Teens Appeal which covers a broad range of areas. It is not just about funding medical equipment but about ensuring that the youngest patients and their families are comfortable and relaxed during their time at the hospital. 

In particular the Mercy University Hospital POONS – this is the Mobile Nursing Service for children receiving cancer treatment in Cork. It allows for children to receive treatment in the comfort of their own homes which can be a huge relief for both children and parents. The service covers a large geographical area from Youghal to Bantry and Mitchelstown to Kinsale, as well as surrounding counties so that all children have access to this service regardless of their location.

“Being able to deliver a home-based option to these children enhances their quality of life and allows for some normalisation of family life during cancer treatment.  It also means there is a reduction in hospital admissions and promotes early discharge from the Hospital. We are also able to provide ongoing training and development for the team of Clinical Nurse Specialists so that they can provide expert care to the children through informed research and up to date knowledge.” 

Olga Buckley, Paediatric Oncology / Haematology CNS.

Please support Mike Fenton's Fundraising for the youngest patients in the Mercy University Hospital.