Cancer is a frightening word that can strike fear in the hearts of many. It is a disease that affects millions of people around the world, and it is one of the leading causes of death. Cancer can be caused by a variety of things, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors. Most of us think cancer puts an end to our life. However, there are millions of cancer survivors who are leading a healthy life. Luke Grenfell-Shaw is a cancer survivor who has been leading a happy and healthy life, and he aims to make people aware of cancer.

Now he works on raising funds for cancer patients and making every survivor aware of a healthy lifestyle. An expedition with a tandem from Bristol, UK, to Beijing, China is a part of his awareness and fund-raising program. Here is what we know about Luke and Bristol2Beijing.

Who is Luke Grenfell-Shaw?

Luke is a British citizen who is an English teacher, Master's degree holder, cyclist, blogger. Despite all these identities, he has now become a big identity as CanLiver. CanLiver is a person living with cancer.

Early in life, he spent some time as an English teacher in Siberia. While there, he competed in ultramarathon races and trail races through the forest.

On June 19, 2018, at the age of 24, he was diagnosed with cancer. His cancer was very rare and invasive sarcoma, which has already taken metastatic shape. The primary tumor had spread to his lungs, and there were 13 nodules. That's why Luke started chemotherapy in July. After completing the first round of chemotherapy in 25 years, he started surgery and radiotherapy with chemotherapy the following year.

However, all these could not change the rhythm of his life. Halfway through chemotherapy, he participated in the Bristol Half Marathon and finished in 1 hour, 20 minutes, and 8 seconds in September 2018. Not only that, he graduated from Oxford University with a degree in hydrology, policy, and management while undergoing chemotherapy.

Despite all this, he believes he can still lead a prosperous and enjoyable life. And every cancer patient like him is capable of doing the same. Then he decided to travel from Bristol, England, to Beijing, China, to raise money for cancer patients.

What is the Idea about Bristol2Beijing?

Bristol2Beijing is a tandem journey by Luke Grenfell-Shaw, which has a goal to raise awareness and redefine what is possible with a cancer diagnosis. On January 1, 2020, Luke set out on a tandem bicycle from Bristol, 30,000 kilometers away, to China. Through this long journey, Luke wants to show the world that even if he is diagnosed with cancer, he does not have to stop. Luke has already inspired millions of people by cycling around 20,000 kilometers.

Luke's expedition invites people, especially the CanLivers (it is a term by Luke, and he meant the people living with cancer), to take part in his country. Usually, when he approaches a country, the people from that country participate. And people show their gratitude in different ways. For example, some people cycle with him in his tandem, others may escort him or organize an event in the country.

When Luke arrived in Germany in 2020, the Corona pandemic broke out. When he returned to the country, he did not give up. When the situation changed, he started his journey again. With this, Luke said, he needs to undergo a physical examination every 4 months. So he tends to remain a little more careful.

Aim of Bristol2Beijing Expedition

So far, Luke Grenfell Shaw has worked to raise funds for cancer patients in 28 countries, as well as raise awareness. He wants to raise 300,000 pounds for five charities. So far, 100,000 pounds have been collected. According to Luke, when he saw the light of hope with the treatment of cancer, he decided to stand by people.

In short, Luke's goal is to collect £300,000, expedite 30,000 km and visit 30 countries with his tandem named 'Chris.' And all these for 1 inspiring cause, fight cancer. At the same time, creating inspiration in everyone that it is possible to live a happy and prosperous life even with cancer.

Luke Grenfell-Shaw in Bangladesh

Luke arrived in Bangladesh via Benapole on March 07, and now he is in Dhaka. He came to Dhaka from Benapole via Gopalganj. The green nature of Bengal has left its mark on the way, and Luke liked the warm welcome in the country. He wants to spend a part of the money collected for cancer patients in Bangladesh. During his stay in Bangladesh, he will attend different awareness programs organized by different organizations. World Child Cancer has partnered with Luke in Bangladesh.

Usually, World Child Cancer's mission is to improve pediatric oncology facilities in Bangladeshi hospitals. In addition, the charity additionally aims to improve the physical and emotional well-being of children with cancer that unfortunately cannot be cured.

After he is done with the programs in Dhaka, Luke will leave Dhaka for Beijing via Sylhet and India.

Final Words

In conclusion, cancer is a serious disease that should not be taken lightly. It can affect anyone at any time. While the treatment is difficult and expensive, it is possible to live a full and happy life with cancer.