Sunday, Apr 14, 2013
Dubai: A Dubai resident is riding 22,000 kilometres across Europe for 90 days in a bid to help raise funds to build a cardiac centre in Gaza.
British expatriate Richard Mitchell, 56, will embark on The Healing Hearts Journey, a trip across 30 countries in support of the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF) as they plan to build a new centre for children suffering from congenital heart disease in Gaza.
After a ceremonial send-off at the Sheraton Hotel at Jumeirah Beach Residence on Saturday afternoon, Mitchell starts his solo charity ride on Sunday across Iran and to Europe, with the United Kingdom as his last stop. Richard is funding his entire trip to ensure all proceeds go toward the cardiac centre.
“I think the biggest challenge I will face are the physical challenges—being on my own and having to make decisions on my own. For example if the [motorcycle] breaks down, I’ll have to repair it on my own,” Mitchell told Gulf News.
“There is a good chance that there’d be snow in Northern Iran and Azerbaijan, but that hardly worries me,” he added.
Mitchell said his journey is dedicated to the children of Gaza who are in need of urgent medical assistance.
“Many children are losing their lives due to the lack of adequate medical care and facilities and I intend to make a difference and do something about it,” he said.
Mitchell plans to visit schools in different countries to talk about his efforts and the PCRF’s causes. He also plans to engage with other charity organisations to garner their support.
Steve Sosebee, Founder & CEO, PCRF, wished Mitchell the best for his herculean journey.
“We are delighted to support Richard in his attempt to raise awareness about the children in Palestine and the PCRF. The journey is going to be a tough ride home but Richard’s ambition and determination have made his preparations for this cause a great story to tell about his adventurous spirit,” Sosebee said.
By Janice Ponce de Leon Staff Reporter
Gulf News 2013. All rights reserved.
