Family pedal for a purpose: 500-mile ride for Karen’s Haven

A family are taking on an extraordinary personal challenge this autumn - cycling from Glossop to Amsterdam in just six days - to raise funds and awareness for Karen’s Haven, a not-for-profit organisation supporting people living with COPD

On September 21, 2025, Wesley Coulding and his son Lee McNamara will set off on a 500mile (800km) sponsored cycle ride in loving memory of Karen, their mum and nan, who sadly passed away just five months ago at the age of 66. She had lived with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) for several years, facing her condition with unimaginable strength, dignity and grace. 

Karen's passing is part of a heart-breaking legacy: her sister Lou and their mother also died from COPD-related conditions both at a young age also, and their family’s experience of watching loved one’s struggle with this life-limiting disease is what drives their determination to raise both funds and awareness. 

Wesley and Lee’s journey is huge challenge. Wesley shared, “This is not going to be easy. I’ve never done anything like this before, but I’m strong-minded and determined and I’m going to give this everything I’ve got.” 

Wesley’s commitment is even more remarkable considering the personal battles he’s overcome. After years of struggling with addiction, Wesley turned his life around after meeting his partner Danielle 20 months ago. Now the healthiest he’s ever been, he’s currently training hard: “I go to the gym but don’t focus on cardio fitness and so my first training session was hard! I rode up a hill and was absolutely gasping for air - it was a reminder of how those with COPD struggle with their condition and spurred me on. 

“It wasn’t even a kilometre long, so I’ve got a lot of training to do to achieve 800km by September! This is going to take everything I’ve got, but I’ll do it for my mum and all those battling this disease.” 

His son Lee, just 25 years old and the proud owner of McNabarbers in Glossop, is equally committed to the cause, saying “I wanted to do something that truly honours my nana’s memory. She meant the world to us, and I know she’d be proud.” 

The family’s passion has culminated in the creation of Karen’s Haven, a not-for-profit organisation founded by Emma Liston, Wesley’s sister. Emma brings over 20 years of experience working in therapeutic and complex care settings and has dedicated her life to supporting others, achieving both a Health Science and Nursing degree. A mother of three and a grandmother herself, she founded Karen’s Haven as a sanctuary of care, compassion and connection for those living with COPD and other life-limiting conditions. 

Emma explained, “My mum Karen wasn’t just a fighter - she was a light. Through every setback, she carried herself with calm determination and deep love for those around her. Karen’s Haven is my way of carrying that light forward.” 

Described as the “heart and soul of everything good” Karen was known for her warmth, her quiet strength, and the deep pride she took in her family. She loved simple pleasures - a good bingo game, a trip to the shops, and especially a nice cup of tea. But above all, she found joy in being a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, nurturing and pouring love into every generation. 

Karen’s Haven now offers vital services such as peer support, education, advanced care planning and bereavement services for families affected by chronic and terminal illnesses. The charity’s mission is simple yet profound: to make sure that no one faces illness or loss alone. Everything the charity does is infused with Karen’s legacy of love, dignity and compassion. 

Wesley and Lee’s journey is a powerful part of that mission. As they train for the September ride, they’re also working hard to spread awareness about COPD - a progressive lung disease that often goes undiagnosed until it’s quite advanced. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, persistent coughing, wheezing and frequent chest infections. There’s no cure, but with support, early diagnosis and awareness, those living with COPD can have a better quality of life. 

The ride will culminate in a special celebration at the Lords and Ladies Charity Ball on 11th October 2025, where the family will present a cheque representing the funds raised through their efforts. The ball will be a night of remembrance, gratitude, and hope - a celebration of Karen’s life and a rallying cry for continued support for those facing similar battles. 

Emma, Wesley, and Lee are calling on the local community to support them however they can - whether through donations, sharing their story, or simply offering a few words of encouragement. “Every mile pedalled is a step closer to helping someone else” said Emma. “Every share, every donation, every conversation - it all helps.” 

Wesley is documenting his journey on TikTok offering a behind-the-scenes look at his training, mindset, and motivation. You can find him at: wesco.uk. 

This challenge is much more than just a bike ride - it's a heartfelt tribute to Karen, a beacon of hope for others, and a powerful reminder that in times of hardship, love and community have the strength to carry us forward, one mile at a time. 

For more information about Karen’s Haven and to make a donation visit the Facebook page: Karen’s Haven for COPD. 

Photo: Emma Liston and Mum Karen.