Pam gears up for 2,500km cycle for Chernobyl

A 70-year-old widow is preparing to embark on a gruelling 2,500km cycle to raise much-needed funding for children with a congenital heart defect.

Twenty-nine years after the Chernobyl nuclear accident, a new generation is still affected by radiation.

In the Cycle for Baby Hearts, Pam Norris, from Kinsale, Co Cork, aims to raise €100,000 for life-saving treatment for children in Ukraine.

From her home town she will traverse the route of the Wild Atlantic Way through West Cork and along the western seaboard to the Northwest and into Derry.

She is undertaking the huge challenge to raise funds for Chernobyl Children International (CCI).

Six times a year, the charity sends a team of surgeons to Ukraine to perform surgery on babies and children born with congenital heart defects as a result of the April 1986 nuclear leak.

Ms Norris said she loves cycling and the outdoors life, but readily admits the schedule will be tough.

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“I was reasonably fit before I decided to do this but, in recent weeks, I have been doing more intensive training, including leg-strengthening exercises.

“I swim every day and also walk the dog daily.”

The plucky pensioner said she was hoping to achieve an average of 60km-70km a day and, while she will be cycling on her own, a support vehicle will be nearby in case of any emergencies.

“I have no idea when I will finish but I’m determined to do it one way or another,” she said.

Pam starts her epic cycle this Sunday which will mark the 29th anniversary of the disaster.

She plans to raise the money through sponsorship from individuals and companies, along with raffles and auctions.

CCI voluntary CEO Adi Roche said: “The people of Kinsale have been involved with us for more than 25 years and they’ve been fantastic. “Pam is a testament to Irish tenacity and Irish generosity.”

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