Simon Lambert’s five-year-old son, Archie, was cared for by Little Havens, a children’s hospice in Thundersley, at the end of his life after nearly two years of treatment for a DIPG (Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma) brain tumour.  

After making it his mission to raise as much money as possible for all the charities that supported Archie, including Little Havens, Simon set off on the 15th April to tackle the tough ‘Leigh to Leigh’ cycle challenge. 

Seven days later, he then crossed the finish line on Sunday 21st April at the Mayflower Pub in Leigh-on-Sea. Simon’s friends and family were at the finish line ready to give him a big cheer and cold beer.  

Simon chose the cycling challenge as a tribute to Archie who loved to cycle with his dad, along with his favourite toy duck resting on the handlebars. The same toy duck was placed on the handlebars of Simon’s bike throughout the fundraiser to remember Archie. The route Simon took also was meaningful – driving from Edinburgh to Southend, via York, was one of the last trips the family took with Archie.  

So far Simon has raised an incredible £10,282 smashing his £10,000 target and sponsorship continues to come in.  

Little Havens provides free specialist care and support for babies, children and young people living with complex or incurable conditions from Essex and surrounding boroughs. Its care only continues thanks to the amazing fundraising and generosity from people like Simon.

Lucy Smith, Wellbeing Events Co-ordinator at Havens Hospices said: “Everyone at Little Havens is in awe of Simon’s incredible fundraising challenge in memory of Archie. Thanks to the amazing support from Simon and his family we can continue providing specialist care and support to families who have been given the devasting news of an incurable condition, helping them make more of the time they have together.” 

To support Simon with a donation, please visit https://www.justgiving.com/team/ArchieLambert 

Published on 15th May 2024