Cyclists take on Paris to London challenge to honour 7-year-old from Oxfordshire
The team has already raised over £46,000 for Oxford Hospitals Charity
A dedicated team of 11 people have cycled from Paris to London sporting Taylor Swift-themed costumes, to honour a young girl from Oxfordshire who has just finished intense cancer treatment.
For the past 20 months, Rori has battled cancer, enduring treatments and surgeries that no child should have to face, yet she shows remarkable strength and spirit daily.
Her journey began at the age of five when her parents took her to A&E after observing blood in her urine, leading to a diagnosis of stage 5 Wilms tumour. The cancer affected both kidneys and spread to her lungs, requiring immediate and extensive treatment.
Throughout her journey, Rori underwent chemotherapy, surgeries, radiotherapy, and a stem cell transplant, concluding her treatment as she now recovers.
Inspired to support the family, Duncan Williams, a school friend of Rori's mother, organised the fundraising bike ride with friends, assembling a team of cyclists ranging from novices to experienced riders.
The team has already raised over £46,000 for Oxford Hospitals Charity, benefiting local children in hospital.
Dressed in Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour-inspired outfits, the cyclists will be welcomed at Buckingham Palace by Rori and her family, celebrating with a picnic today (4th July)
One of the cyclists, Rori's Uncle Wilf, described her as full of personality and uplifting those around her, even during tough times.
Gemma Cole, Community Fundraising Manager at Oxford Hospitals Charity, extended her wishes: “We wish all 11 cyclists the very best of luck as they take on this remarkable journey.”
Rori requested the ride take place in Taylor Swift costumes after celebrating her recovery and birthday with a themed party.