In January of this year, after months of uncertainty we found out that my dad had developed cancer of the Pancreas. It hit us all pretty hard as he has always been so fit and strong and has a very healthy lifestyle (supplemented by a few glasses of red wine here and there of course).
The hardest thing about it all is being powerless to help - Watching dad and also my mum suffer, is the most difficult thing I've had to deal with in my lifetime.
When faced with the prospect of loosing a loved one it makes you focus on what is most important in life - family and friends. It got me thinking about how I could channel some of my energy into doing something to help dad in another way.
Alongside his Chemotherapy, dad has been undergoing a trial drug treatment at the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials research Centre. The overwhelming message in all of this, is the level of care he receives on his weekly visits to undergo his treatment. The staff have been amazing and make what is a very difficult time, much more bearable for dad.
My Challenge - after completing several endurance events last year - (great north swim, run and bike ride) I had been toying with the idea of entering Ironman 70.3 but was very daunted at the thought of the sheer distance and mental strength required. I had a word with myself! I figured If dad can undergo all of this energy draining treatment and keep fighting then I can push myself harder and complete this event - most importantly raising money for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and also Hospice Care Northumberland whom I have fundraised for over the last few years - both charities provide invaluable support for people and their families who are facing cancer.
So it begins...The company I work for, Countylife Homes - Have sponsored my entry into Ironman Mallorca 70.3. 10th May 2014. So I can't back out now. Not only that, but news has spread around my Triathlon club (Tri Northumberland) and 3 other guys I train with have entered...so now we have a team of supporters and fundraisers!
Time to start the training...this friday 2 miles in Lake Windemere...Here goes nothing!
I will be setting up a just giving page very soon for donations...I know it's a long way off, but please give what you can. Most of us will be affected by cancer in our lifetime, and these charities rely on donations to keep going and keep researching.
Updates coming each week, Thanks for reading.
Love Triathlotte x (copyright - Claire Forsythe)
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