A survivor of Guillain-Barré Syndrome takes on the Pyrenees — raising vital funds for Inflammatory Neuropathies UK and GBS|CIDP España. Coast to coast. ~1,000km. ~22,000m of climbing. One purpose.
Raising funds for
Challenge begins in
~12days
Days to Complete
~1,000km
Kilometres to Ride
~22,000m
Metres of Climbing
~2.5
The Height of Everest
My name is Martin, and I am a survivor of Guillain-Barré Syndrome. In 2021, GBS changed my life — but it didn't define it. In October 2026, starting from my home in Pamplona, my incredible wife Edurne and I will take on the Pyrenees: a complete coast-to-coast traverse of one of Europe's most challenging mountain ranges.
Our ride is a shared mission to raise vital awareness and funds for the GBS community. We don't know exactly how many days it will take, or how many mountains will have to be climbed. But we invite you to follow along, day by day, on our journey of hope and resilience.
Read Martin's full storyA complete coast-to-coast traverse — from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic and back home again — in self-supported bikepacking style.
East from the Basque coast, battling the legendary cols of the French Pyrenees. Aubisque, Tourmalet, Aspin — names that echo through cycling history. Each summit is a victory over both mountain and the limitations GBS tried to impose. The French side is characterised by steep, dramatic climbs and deep, verdant valleys that funnel you toward the next great challenge.
After reaching the Mediterranean, the journey turns west for the long road home. This is a test of endurance and heart, a deep dive into the Spanish side of the mountains. Our route will focus on the long, remote, and beautiful roads of Catalunya, Aragón, and finally, Navarra. The climbs are less steep but just as relentless, demanding a different kind of strength for the journey back to the Atlantic.
This will be some description of finally reaching the Atlantic coast, the emotions of completing the challenge, and the final push to the finish line. The terrain will be less mountainous but still demanding, with rolling hills and coastal roads that test the legs after weeks in the mountains.
This will be some description about the final stage, the homecoming, the celebration, the emotions of returning to Pamplona after conquering the Pyrenees. It will be a mix of relief, joy, and reflection on the journey that has been both a physical and emotional challenge.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome can strike anyone, at any age. Understanding it is the first step toward better treatment and support for those affected.
It's an autoimmune issue. Think of it this way:
GBS is a rare condition where your body's immune system gets confused and starts attacking your nerves.
1-2
per 100,000 affected
Weeks
to full paralysis
Months
to years recovery
"We are absolutely thrilled to see Martin and Edurne embark on 'The Slow Road Back.' Their courage and determination embody the very spirit we champion at Inflammatory Neuropathies UK."
Inflammatory Neuropathies UK
Head of Patient Advocacy
"We are truly honoured to support Martin and Edurne on their extraordinary journey. 'The Slow Road Back' captures the spirit of every patient who has fought to reclaim their life after GBS — and we stand proudly beside them."
GBS|CIDP España
Representative, GBS|CIDP España
100% of every donation goes directly to our partner charities supporting GBS research and patient care in the UK and Spain.
UK Charity Target
£10,000
Spanish Charity Target
10.000 €