Royd Tolkien and his brother Mike visit Hobbiton.
Royd Tolkien and his brother Mike visit Hobbiton.

As we first reported here in December, after J.R.R. Tolkien’s great grandson Mike lost his battle to Motor Neuron Disease (MDS) almost one year ago, his older brother Royd took up the challenge to complete the bucket list of 50 items his younger brother left to him. A related article by the U.K. Independent paints a rich backstory of two brothers who seemed worlds apart, yet who came together in mutual support at the most difficult of times.

Though the kickstarter campaign to help fund filming of the bucket list challenge fell short, the project, and Royd’s dedication to complete it, lives on. Perhaps these two determined brothers weren’t so different after all. Out hearts go out to the Mike’s family and loved ones as they pass the difficult anniversary of Mike’s passing. Be sure to watch the ice bucket challenge video at the end of the article which will have you both laughing in delight, and shedding a quiet tear. Read more…