Bhopal challenge ride

Thursday, 14 August 2008

Between the 1- 10th of November this year John Appleby of Hebden Bridge will be taking part in a sponsored cycle challenge in India to raise money for the Bhopal Medical Appeal.

Twenty four years after the Bhopal chemical disaster killed thousands of people (20,000 by reliable estimates) many more people are still suffering as a result of the contamination Union Carbide never bothered to clean up.

John is aiming to raise at least £2700 sponsorship which will pay for a doctor's salary at the Sambhavna clinic for one year as well as the cost of this challenge.

John would appreciate any & all donations via the Just Giving website

John says that the Bhopal chemical disaster was probably the worst chemical disaster the world has ever suffered. Thousands died in the immediate aftermath of the disaster but the greater tragedy is that thousands are still suffering as a result of that ‘accident’ and the fact that those with responsibility never accepted it. This ride will help sponsor the Sambhavna clinic and help address these ongoing medical problems.

John has said, "Personally I‘ve never been much of a biker but this is too good a cause not to help so I am really grateful for all and any donations. Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: The Bhopal Medical Appeal will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

"Donations can also be made via sponsorship forms at Sids music shop on Market Street and on the notice boards in the Co-op and at the Stubbings Wharf pub, or failing that please free to call at my home to fill in a form there - 2, Cambridge Street."

More info

John's sponsorship page on the Just Giving website

"Shortly after midnight poison gas leaked from a factory in Bhopal, India, owned by the Union Carbide Corporation. There was no warning, none of the plant's safety systems were working. In the city people were sleeping. They woke in darkness to the sound of screams with the gases burning their eyes, noses and mouths. They began retching and coughing up froth streaked with blood. Whole neighbourhoods fled in panic, some were trampled, others convulsed and fell dead. People lost control of their bowels and bladders as they ran. Within hours thousands of dead bodies lay in the streets." Read more

The Bhopal Medical Appeal