What if breast cancer is just the start of an incredible journey?
This year I will be joining 20 magnificent women, survivors of breast cancer, in a 1,000 mile ride from Los Angeles to San Francisco. I go to the USA on 31st August, and the ride is from 4th – 13th September.
In 2004 twenty young breast cancer survivors challenged themselves to a 1,000 mile ride on Harley-Davidson motorcycles from San Diego to San Francisco, California. Along the way they formed life long friendships, gained support and strength in dealing with their breast cancer experience, and raised vital funds for and awareness of breast cancer issues.
This first ride expanded in 2005 to become a Global Relay with 1,000 mile rides in the United Kingdom, United States and Australia, involving 48 women living with breast cancer from around the world. These motorcycle adventures, and other life affirming experiences, are organised by Amazon Heart, a not for profit global association of women living with breast cancer.
I was diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2007, and an operation to remove the lump was followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Aged 53, I was told that this was quite young to get the disease, but there are many women who receive a diagnosis at a younger age and this can be quite devastating for some. I passed my motorcycle test in 2004, and this is a great adventure for me to ride further than ever before while meeting up with like-minded women.
I received excellent help and advice from hospital staff, from volunteers with Macmillan Cancer Support, HeadStrong (funded by Breast Cancer Care) and Wirral Holistic Centre, and from the lovely lady that supplied my wigs. I am aiming to raise £2500 so that other women who receive a breast cancer diagnosis can also get the advice and support that they need.
The funds raised by UK women on rides across the globe will stay in the UK supporting Amazon Heart Trust UK (Registered Charity No 1119067), who establish peer support adventures for UK women diagnosed with breast cancer, and provide grant support to likeminded organisations. In respect of the USA ride, Amazon Heart Trust UK has undertaken to make a gift of 50% of the proceeds to Breast Cancer Care.
Please support me to help these charities carry on their excellent work helping people with breast cancer to find the support and advice they need.
www.amazonheartthunder.org has more details and you can sponsor me at www.smartgive.com/funds/ahtusa08wendy
MANY THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
