Riette Thomas

Peter and I were married for 20 years. He was the sporty one and I never thought that something like this could happen to us. It was a priviledge to have shared such a full life in such a short time. We had some amazing adventures which I wil treasure a life time. I have two beautiful children Lauren and Dylan who are a split image of their dad. Those who know will vouch that I am not really the sport type, more the adventurous!!! The bike ride is going to be a real challenge, but then I have always enjoyed challenges in my life and faced them head on, this is just another one.

Two years ago Lauren walked 150km across the Sinai desert to raise money for the hospice but also to face the death of Peter. Spending time in the desert gave her the opportunity to deal with it. The GIST 2009 bike ride is an opportunity for Dylan, as he is now a bit older and started asking questions about the cancer Peter had. It is such an opportunity for children to deal with their bereavement as it will help them in future. Now is the right time and I am supporting him during this time of change. The death of a loved one leaves a big hole, but also throws amazing opportunities at you. Grab them and live today as if it is the last!