Why?

Why indeed!

All teams entering the World’s Toughest Row embrace a charity that is close to their heart or experiences. The charity that I’m going to support is the Maarten van der Weijden Foundation (www.mvdwfoundation). And for a reason as I was confronted with this disease. In 2013 I was diagnosed with cancer and I’m still aware of the fact that I have a more than average chance to have to deal with it again. But; I gained a lot of strength, willpower and positivity from this period and realised how much power there is in a human body. Undertaking the Atlantic Challenge Solo means for me: a tribute to the human body, and for all that haven’t had this much luck as I had so far.

My experience with cancer has shaped who I am today. It has taught me the true meaning of determination, resilience, and the power of never giving up. This solo journey is not just a physical challenge; it’s a celebration of life, strength, and the support we all need to move forward.

During the treatments it was obvious for me that I had to keep moving, eat healthy, going out for walks, cycle trips, spend as much time outdoors as was bearable in the circumstances. It goes without saying the charity that I support focuses on exactly those aspects. The quality of life does improve when you take care of yourself in the best possible way. Not for everybody this is within reach, therefore I support more cancer research, especially research that digs into the relationship lifestyle-sports-nutrition and reducing the risk of developing cancer. And for the patients, to help them have the best possible quality of life.

Imagine: one in two to three people will be confronted with cancer in their lives. That is too much! More research is needed to reduce the chances to develop cancer. Apart from this, research and education about the relationship between nutrition, sports and spending time outdoors is much needed, all for the improvement of the quality of life.

So yes, it is my mission to promote the good work of this Fund by doing what I love best: rowing!

https://www.mvdwfoundation.nl/