Starting on SEPTEMBER 11th 2010 Justin, Skibum, JP, Mitchell and Steve will begin making their way 240 miles along the UK inland waterways in a kayak

from Manchester to London. They are aiming to raise awareness of TPN, Crohn’s, intestinal disease, ostomy and St. Mark’s Hospital, Harrow, UK.

The challenge is called Gutless kayaking because Justin, the instigator of the event has very few guts left after Crohns disease and complications – he is now fed for life via a tube through his chest known as TPN ( total parental nutrition). Kayaking because Justin was a great adventurer and sportsman until struck down with Crohns. He now wants to give something back to the people and the hospital (St Mark’s in Harrow) who help him and so many others. The connection between St Mark’s and Hope is that they are the two centres of excellence for Intestinal Failure in the UK.

They are looking for the loan of narrow boat to act as a support vehicle because Justin’s aseptic procedures are difficult to carry out and he will be connected to his liquid nutrition for the duration of the trip. That is, for 24 hours a day instead of his usual 12 hours per day.

They have tried holiday companies and they are all full, so they thought they would try narrow boat communities – perhaps someone needs a boat moved north to south – even for just a section / or a few days – they would be happy to provide fuel costs and bring their own bedding etc…..if you have any ideas, can help them or know someone who might be able to, they would greatly appreciate a call or an email. All thoughts/suggestions/ideas will be followed up – or perhaps you can pass the request around.

For all the details including contact details, see their Gutless Kayaking website.