LOSING weight, getting fit and raising cash to help disabled children have all been on a Bodmin man’s to-do list during lockdown.

And Mike Jenkins has risen to the challenge, having already lost a stone and raised hundreds of pounds for the charity Caudwell Children.

Mike’s 18-year-old step-son, Cavan Hoey, has two rare diseases which attack his immune system and which have left him with brain scarring and uncontrolled epilepsy.

Cavan has received support from the charity in recent years – including a family trip to Disneyland in 2018.

To give something back to Caudwell Children, Mike, 45, has spent recent months in lycra and on two wheels to help the charity support more disabled children across the UK.

He has clocked up more than 400 miles so far and has set a fundraising target of £850.

“Cavan has a limited lifespan and Caudwell Children has really helped him, taking us to Disneyland Florida as part of their Destination Dreams programme,” said Mike.

“I don’t think enough people know what families with disabled children go through. So I wanted to do this fundraiser to highlight what Caudwell Children do to help.

“The trip to Disneyland was filled with magical memories. It was the first time I had ever flown, and it was Cavan’s first ever long-haul flight. We made fabulous friends with other parents of disabled children who we’re still in touch with now – and that is such a help. So I just thought it’s time to give something back.”

Since it was founded in March 2000, Caudwell Children has supported more than 50,000 children and families. The charity provides a safety net for those unable to gain the help they need – offering equipment, support and services.

“During the first lockdown I was furloughed and I thought cycling could help me lose weight, but I needed a reason to inspire me to get on a bike,” said Mike.

“I saw that Caudwell Children wanted people to take on fundraising challenges and I bit the bullet.

“I wanted to be a role model for Cavan and my three kids – to give them the best quality of life I can and prove that with a bit of determination you can do anything.”

Caudwell Children’s CEO Trudi Beswick said: “It makes my day every time I hear such a story like Mike’s. The last year has been tough for charities, as it has for everyone, so please support him if you can.”

To learn more about Mike’s challenge and support the appeal, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/mike-jenkins15