April 12, 2023 - 1995 views
On the 8th July, Breast Cancer Now’s iconic Pink Ribbon Walk is returning to the beauty hotspot of Chatsworth House and the Peak District. The charity is calling on outdoor lovers to step forward for people affected by breast cancer at the 10 or 20-mile walks.
After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012, Jane Atkinson from Colwyn Bay has taken part in Breast Cancer Now’s Pink Ribbon Walk four times. This year she’s calling on fellow fundraisers to join her for her fifth time walking to raise money for world-class research and support.
In Wales, every year around 2,800 people (2,800 women and 20 men) are diagnosed with breast cancer. That’s around 54 people each week.
Jane said: “I was first diagnosed with breast cancer aged 49. Having lost my mum to breast cancer just three years earlier in 2009, it was a really tough time. I needed surgery and radiotherapy, then life started to return to normal. But, after my next annual check-up, I was diagnosed with an invasive tumour on my other breast. Now, 10 years later, after a mastectomy, reconstruction and chemotherapy, I’m so happy to be well and have no evidence of breast cancer.
“Having had cancer in both breasts, I worry about my daughter and future generations of women and men. By supporting Breast Cancer Now and taking part in Pink Ribbon Walk, I feel I’m doing my bit to help those undergoing treatment and those who’ll need it in the future.”
Taking place in two beautiful countryside locations in May and July, the Pink Ribbon Walk events are one of the Breast Cancer Now’s biggest and best-loved fundraising events – having raised more than £14.5 million for world class breast cancer research and support since its first walkers crossed the finish line in 2005.
Jane continued: “I can’t wait for this year’s walk at Chatsworth. Walking through the beautiful countryside alongside my friends is one of my favourite things to do. I walk a lot with my dog anyway, but my friends and I also plan a few longer walks in the months before the event, 20 miles on the day of the event is certainly a challenge for me!
“If you’re thinking about signing up for this year’s event, go for it! You won’t regret it. Not only is walking a great way to keep fit but you’ll also meet many like-minded people and probably make some new friends along the way. The event is really well organised with plenty of support along the route, the atmosphere is amazing, and you're helping to save lives. Just do it!”
Your support has never been more important. Breast Cancer Now estimates that by 2030, 1.2 million women will be living with breast cancer. With every step, walkers at the Pink Ribbon Walk events will help Breast Cancer Now to be here for everyone affected by the disease and fund life-saving research, to give that all-important hope for the future.
Claire Pulford, Associate Director, Community and Events at Breast Cancer Now, said: “It’s fabulous to once again be inviting everyone to put their best foot forward and get sponsored to join us for one of our Pink Ribbon Walks at Chatsworth. I want to say a huge heartfelt thank you to Jane for taking part in the iconic walk a whopping four times and signing up again this year!
“Every 10 minutes, someone in the UK hears the words “you have breast cancer”. Money raised from Pink Ribbon Walk events will help us to provide support for today and hope for the future for people affected by breast cancer. Jane’s incredible fundraising means that we can make sure we are there for everyone diagnosed with breast cancer, every step of the way. We simply couldn’t do what we do without amazing people like Jane.
“Whether it’s a new challenge or breath-taking views you’re looking for, join us at a Pink Ribbon Walk this year. It’s a chance to come together with friends, family, your four-legged companion or to walk solo, making a real difference to anyone affected by breast cancer.
“Help us to create hope with every step. Register for a Pink Ribbon Walk now, we look forward to welcoming you at the start line on 8th July!”
Walkers will be supported all the way with a clearly marked route, expert guides and regular rest stops with snacks - allowing those taking part to soak up the spectacular scenery and focus on reaching that finish line.
Challenge yourself to a Pink Ribbon Walk and help fund life-changing research and support. Find out more and register today at http://www.breastcancernow.org/ribbonwalk.
