A passionate cycling enthusiast is preparing for a 780-mile journey from his workplace in Rugby to Leipzig, Germany, in support of two charities that hold deep personal significance. Richard Kelly, an account manager at Deponti, will embark on the six-day ride next month, driven by the memory of loved ones lost and a determination to raise vital funds for suicide prevention and hospice care.
The ride, which Richard has named ‘Le Tour Deponti,’ will raise money for Papyrus, a UK-based suicide prevention charity, in memory of a teenage friend of his 15-year-old son who tragically died by suicide earlier this year. He is also dedicating his efforts to Overgate Hospice in Yorkshire, which provided end-of-life care for his close friend Joe Kitcher, who passed away from a brain tumour.
Beginning his journey on June 14 from Deponti’s headquarters in Rugby, Richard will cycle across the UK and continue through France, Belgium, and The Netherlands before reaching the Deponti showroom in Artern, Germany. The ambitious trek, spanning over 780 miles, is both a personal challenge and a heartfelt mission.
Richard shared his mixed emotions ahead of the ride, describing himself as “excited but also a little nervous about the journey ahead.” Still, he expressed confidence that each mile would be meaningful, contributing to causes that support people in need during their most difficult moments.
In reflecting on his motivations, Richard spoke about the impact of suicide on young people, noting that it is the leading cause of death among those aged 35 and under in the UK. His ride aims to bring attention to this crisis and support Papyrus’s suicide prevention helpline, which provides life-saving services to vulnerable individuals.
The ride is also a tribute to Joe Kitcher, Richard’s long-time friend whom he met at age 17. Joe was a well-known and unforgettable personality, both on the football pitch and in professional life, where he mentored Richard in sales. Joe’s life was cut short in 2018, at the age of 58, after battling a brain tumour. His final days were made more comfortable thanks to the care provided by Overgate Hospice, which is now seeking support for its ‘Big Build Project’ to expand its facilities.
Through ‘Le Tour Deponti,’ Richard hopes not only to challenge himself physically but also to honor the memory of those lost and inspire others to support causes that save lives and offer comfort.
Related Topics
- Savanna Shines as Premier Destination for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Small-Town Charm
- West Bexington Residents Raise Concerns Over Increasing Wild Camping and Antisocial Behavior
- Former Forest Service Worker Warns Federal Staff Cuts Threaten Safety of Outdoor Recreation in Colorado