06
May
Dacre breast cancer survivor to take on ultra-marathon for charity
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A Dacre woman who has recently recovered from breast cancer is taking on an ultra-marathon for Breast Cancer Now.
Emma Sawyer, a member of Ripon Runners, went through several rounds of chemotherapy, followed by surgery and radiotherapy, during treatment last year.
Emma has now signed up for the 30-mile Peak District Ultra Challenge in July.
She took part in the Equinox 24-Hour Race in Leicestershire last September. Her teammate had already signed up for the ultra-marathon, which prompted Emma and her friends to follow suit:
My friend Kedren was part of that Equinox team, so when she told us that she had entered the Peak District Ultra, the rest of us decided to support her and enter too. It seemed like a challenge I should try, and an opportunity to raise some money for Breast Cancer Now.
She is running four times a week – with friends in Nidderdale and through Ripon Runners – in preparation, and her fundraising efforts for charity Breast Cancer Now are well underway.
Emma, who chose to raise funds for the charity as it offers support throughout the treatment process and after, said:
No-one really talks about what happens after the treatment and the fact that there are ongoing side effects from the drugs you have to take. The charity also promotes national screening campaigns and is raising awareness so that more people know what signs to look for – and how to get checked.
But how is Emma feeling about the upcoming ultra-marathon?
Actually, I was really dreading it at first, because I don't like running off road – and I really don't like hills – so I was seriously considering my life choices! But as the training has progressed, I've practised my fuelling, discovered peanuts, so I’m now feeling a little bit more confident.
After the race, I’m really looking forward to a nice glass of Prosecco, putting my feet up for a while… then maybe getting back to some road running.
Emma has so far raised £400 of her £500 target.
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