A SURGEON from Nuffield Health Taunton Hospital pedalled hundreds of miles beyond the call of duty to support one of his patients.

Pradeep Madhavan, an orthopaedic spinal surgeon, cycled from John O’Groats to Land’s End to help raise money for a wheelchair for 15-year-old Hattie Greenway, who has cerebral palsy. 

Last year, Hatty underwent major spinal surgery to correct severe scoliosis (a curved spine) and Pradeep’s mammoth cycle ride will help contribute towards the £10,000 cost of the wheelchair she now needs. 

Pradeep, who completed the challenge with colleague Daniel Chan from the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, describes cycling as a hobby, but says travelling the length of the UK stretched him to his limits. 

He added: “It was one of the most physically challenging things I have ever done, at the same time as being one of the most emotionally rewarding.”

Sasha Burns, Nuffield Health Taunton Hospital director, said: “We are very proud of Pradeep and his efforts to support Hatty. His passion and commitment to his patients shines through daily and we are pleased to have him as part of our team.”

Money is still needed for Hatty’s wheelchair – people can contribute by following this link and searching for Hatty Greenway.