David Gauci to cycle 1,000km around Sicily in 4 days in aid of Hospice Malta

The Past Pupils and Friends of Don Bosco Association announced that cyclist David Gauci will embark on a 1,000km solo cycling challenge around the island of Sicily in four days this September, to raise funds for Hospice Malta.

In a Facebook post by the Friends of Don Bosco, Gauci, a past pupil of Don Bosco (Savio College), said that the challenge is inspired by his late father, who passed away from cancer.

“My father passed away from cancer, and during the most difficult months of his illness, Hospice Malta were there for me, and for all of us as a family. The care, the support, the dignity they offered was beyond what we could have hoped for,” Gauci said.

He said that Hospice Malta made sure his father was never alone in his pain, and they helped his family find strength in their grief.

“I will always remain in gratitude for what they have done for us. This ride is dedicated to Hospice Malta, in honour of my dad and in support of those still going through that same journey,” he said.

The post said that Hospice Malta provides free palliative care and support to people suffering from cancer and other terminal illnesses, addressing not only medical needs but also emotional, psychological, and spiritual wellbeing.

Their work depends entirely on donations, it said.

The post said that this will not be Gauci’s first endurance cycling feat, as his past challenges include the Camino solo, where he cycled 1,000km in eight days, a solo ride around Sicily – 1,000km in five days, and a 1,100km group ride with NGO Alive in six days.

However, Gauci said that this upcoming ride is different, as it is driven by a personal mission to give back to those who supported his family.

The Friends of Don Bosco said that Gauci’s effort reflects the values of the Salesian community, which emphasises reason, religion, and loving-kindness, guiding members to live lives of integrity and faith.

Donations can be made with this information:

Account Holder: The Maltese National Federation of Past Pupils of Don Bosco

Bank: APS Bank plc

Account Number: 42930510015

IBAN: MT42APSB770130000000042930510015

BIC: APSBMTMT

Bank Address: Tower Road, Sliema

Revolut: +356 99296552

Online: Hospice Malta donation page

“This challenge is for every family who has needed Hospice Malta, for every patient who felt seen and cared for, and for the tireless team who make it possible. With your help, I want to give back, and help ensure others can receive the same support we were blessed with,” Gauci said.