Riding in Memory of Dr. Gareth Llewelyn: Gwyn’s Tour de Mon Challenge for City Hospice
This August, Gwyn Williams will take on the Tour de Mon challenge in memory of his dear friend, Dr Gareth Llewelyn. As he prepares to cycle 106 miles around Anglesey, Gwyn shares his journey with us—a journey as much about honouring a friendship as it is about raising funds for the vital services provided by City Hospice.
The Tour de Mon is a popular cycling event held on the picturesque island of Anglesey in North Wales. This challenge offers cyclists three routes: the “Bach” (46 miles), the “Canol” (77 miles), and the “Mawr” (106 miles). Each route varies in difficulty, with the “Mawr” being the longest and most challenging.
Gwyn first became aware of Dr Gareth Llewelyn through Gareth’s significant contributions to the Welsh language within the health sector. However, Gwyn and Gareth’s friendship blossomed under more personal circumstances. Their children, Dafydd and Hanna, met in Cardiff and are now engaged. Over the years, Gwyn and Gareth and their wives shared many meals, drinks, and conversations. Both in their early 60s at the time, they connected over their love for the Welsh language, sports, and eventually, cycling.
Last year, Gwyn participated in the Tour de Mon “Bach” route, a 46-mile ride, which sparked a conversation with Gareth about tackling the event together. They decided to push their limits with the “Mawr.” Sadly, before they could make this plan a reality, Gareth fell ill and passed away.
Gwyn told us,
“I knew I wanted to honour his memory in a way that reflected our shared passion. Tour de Mon was the perfect opportunity to do so.
Throughout this journey, my thoughts have often turned to Gareth’s final days and the incredible support he and his family received from City Hospice. When I decided to undertake this challenge in his memory, there was no question about where the fundraising efforts should go. City Hospice allowed Gareth to spend his final moments at home, surrounded by his loved ones.
Gwyn added,
“As I pedal through the roads of Anglesey, Gareth will be with me, in my thoughts , I’ll be riding not just for the challenge, but for a cause that truly matters.”
Gwyn’s story is an inspiration to us all. If you would like to support his effort and contribute to the vital work of City Hospice, please head over to his GoFundMe page below.
Katie Vaughan, Fundraising Coordinator at City Hospice said,
“Here at City Hospice, we want to say a massive thank you to Gwyn for continuing to take part in this incredible challenge in memory of his friend, Dr Gareth Llewelyn. What an achievement it will be completing the 106 mile ride on Sunday. Good luck, we can’t wait to see the photos.”
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