Surgeons get on their bikes for hospital charity

Consultant plastic surgeon Andy Mellington and speciality registrar in plastic surgery Ben Way, are swapping their scrubs for saddles as they prepare to take part in the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 in aid of the QVH Charity.

The famous 100 mile ride on Sunday 29 July will see Andy and Ben join around 25,000 other amateur cyclists take on a challenge like no other through London and Surrey – a similar route to that of the London 2012 Olympic road cycling races. As well as focusing on conquering the route they’re also determined to raise money for QVH Charity which supports where they both work – Queen Victoria Hospital in East Grinstead.

Aside from fundraising, a big challenge for them both is finding time to train whilst working in a busy hospital!

Andy from Outwood near Redhill, specialises in breast reconstruction following breast cancer, and trauma. He’s chosen to cycle for QVH Charity as he knows what a difference it can make. He said: “My career in plastic surgery started at Queen Victoria Hospital when I was a junior doctor and I was determined to come back as a consultant. Being passionate about where you work is important, so cycling in aid of the QVH Charity was a natural choice. The charity helps fund important initiatives for the hospital including medical research projects to find new treatments, more and better equipment, and helps improve the hospital environment for patients. My ride is a way of giving something back.”

And who better to cycle with than your colleague?

Ben from Thames Ditton, has worked at Queen Victoria Hospital for just under two years. When asked why he chose to take on the challenge he said: “I’ve taken up cycling having been a runner previously, and with a few marathons under my belt I’m used to endurance events. The life changing work that happens at the hospital and being able to see the difference QVH Charity can make to the hospital is a real motivator for me which will get me across the finish line.”

You can sponsor Andy and Ben through their online fundraising page: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Team/QVHPlasticsRide100

Pictured: Andy Mellington and Ben Way get set for the RideLondon-Surrey 100 in aid of QVH Charity.

For more information please contact the QVH Press Office on 01342 414508.