I have a friend, a remarkable friend who has great talent and a big heart. I have known Jen Armstrong (AKA - Vegan Queen V) for over 12 years now. She has supported me and Doctors Without Borders numerous times over the years. Jen performed at Blues Without Borders at the Blues Bar in Harrogate in 2010 and at Burlesque Without Borders twice I think.
In 2011 I was prepping for the 1500 mile walka2b from Amsterdam to Barcelona. I was looking for original ideas to fundraise and after a chat with Jen we came up with the idea of an inspiring ’theme tune’.
Jen has now written songs for both walka2b and our Trans-USA bike ride in ‘16.
A few months ago we discussed the plans for the Ride to the Rock and once again. Jen offered her support.
‘I can do it’ is now recorded and ready and it is beautiful. The first time I listened to it I was overwhelmed. It precisely evokes the feelings and motivation that we wanted to project. It is also intensely personal.
I am writing this without permission from Tracey (featured in the artwork while cycling across the USA) but I feel justified. In 2021, Tracey cared for her Auntie Susan as she endured and finally died from cancer. Tracey’s love and compassion were both incredibly moving and inspiring. Susans courage within her illness was also remarkable. She was a very determined lady. Tracey told me about how she would go to help Susan stand from her chair and she would say to Tracey “it’s ok, I can do it”.
When Jen asked me what I wanted in the song I spoke of freedom, mountains and seas, struggle, fulfilment, challenge and determination. I asked Tracey what she wanted, she just wanted four words. Four words that encapsulate the spirit of a much loved lady who like the people supported by Doctors Without Borders must and will be remembered "I can do it".
Please listen to this lovely song HERE on Bandcamp , then buy it for £1 or preferably more. The money goes to Médecins Sans Frontières / Doctors Without Borders . This song is beautiful and it deserves to be heard. Please share widely and if you know anyone in Radio of other media please let them hear it.
