Everyday Heroes: Rob Whiteford’s 160-mile retirement ride for Parkinson’s research

Retirement didn’t go as planned for Rob Whiteford. Despite being diagnosed with Parkinson’s just as he left a lifetime of farming, he refused to put on the brakes. We recently caught up with him to hear more about his astonishing efforts to raise money for Parkinson’s research at the University.

Hey, Rob! Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what you raised money for?  

I retired from a lifetime of farming in 2020, and I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at the same time. Not the best start to retirement! I’ve always been keen on sport - rugby, golf, cycling and more. After my diagnosis, I was determined to keep as active as possible.  I decided to try to raise funds for the Parkinson’s Research Programme at the University’s School of Life Sciences. 

What was it about Parkinson’s research at the University that inspired you to dedicate your time and efforts to fundraise for it? 

I attended a couple of Open Days organised by the Parkinson’s Team at the School of Life Sciences. My consultant, Dr Esther Sammler, is involved in the research. The team’s enthusiasm and the amount of research taking place is inspiring. 

We'd love to hear more about the activity itself! What was the most fun, challenging, or surprising thing that happened while you were taking on your challenge? 

When I was 60, a group of us cycled from Lands’ End to John O’ Groats. Now at 70, I wanted to do something similar while I was still fit enough!  I asked some good friends who have supported me if they would join me on a West coast to East coast challenge, from Annan to Cupar. I wanted the cycle to be a challenge for me to complete, and it was! 

We completed 70 miles on the first day and 65 on the second, which was very hard. Doing two days in a row was tough, but the boys got me over the line. I wouldn’t have managed without their support. 

The final day was a short one and I was overwhelmed at the number of friends that joined us on the final leg, including my 9-year-old grandson, Ramsay, who raced me the last few miles.  It was a very special moment for me - and him.

Organising the trip took a lot of time and effort, but I had a lot of help. Our back up team was invaluable on the journey, and we couldn’t have done it without them. 

We had so many laughs over the three days. The finale was cycling into Howe of Fife Rugby Club in Cupar where all our family and friends were cheering us in- and a few well-deserved beers were waiting!

What was your fundraising goal for your challenge? What did you end up raising for Parkinson’s Research? 

We set a target of £5,000, although I hoped that we might raise a wee bit more. We managed to raise a staggering £19,987 plus £4,442 of Gift Aid, so a total of £24,429. I am very humbled and grateful for the tremendous support and generosity from our friends and supporters.

Why do you think it’s important for others in the community to get behind University projects like Parkinson’s Research?

Without the effort of people raising funds, the amazing research going on at the University of Dundee, like the Parkinson’s Research Programme, could be jeopardised.

Finally, what one simple piece of advice you’d give to someone who is thinking about doing their own fundraising for the University?

A fundraising event might seem daunting, but it’s amazing what you can achieve with the support of your friends and family!