A ROSYTH dad is gearing up for a 45 mile cycling challenge to raise funds for a charity very close to his heart. 

Ryan O'Connor, 26, has experienced first hand the vital work The Sick Kids Friends Foundation does, since his daughter was diagnosed with Hirchsprung disease shortly after birth. 

Orla, 2, suffers from the rare condition that causes faeces to become stuck in the bowels.

Ryan said: "The Sick Kids Friends Foundation has played a big part in our lives since Orla was born and was diagnosed.

“During what was a scary and worrying time for us all, the team did a fantastic job at caring for her and making her better.

"Not only that but we were looked after too, which included being able to use the parents’ accommodation, so we could stay close to Orla, and the Drop In Centre.

"Thanks to them, hospital stays become fun instead of nerve-wracking, and that's just a small part of what they do.”

Ryan will take up the Pedal for Scotland Classic Challenge this September to help enable his daughter and others like her to have a more positive hospital experience. 

As a novice to challenges like this, Ryan admits he’s a little anxious about the cycle but is glad to have his friends and family for support when the going gets tough. 

He added: “I’m going to train as hard as I can by cycling to my work, going to the gym and taking on other general fitness programmes, and hopefully I can raise as much money as possible for this hugely worthy cause.”

To help Ryan reach his £500 target, donate to his Just Giving page: http://www.justgiving.com/Ryan-O-connor4