A DETERMINED duo are taking on a new challenge each month this year to raise funds for The Christie Charity.
Joanne Taylor, 47, was first diagnosed with primary breast cancer nine years ago, then re-diagnosed with secondary, incurable breast cancer in 2014.
Determined to help others in the same situation, the mum of two has set up the ‘After Breast Cancer Diagnosis Care’ website offering help and information for patients.
Jo, who is in active treatment at The Christie, spends her time promoting health and fitness for patients and completed the Manchester to Blackpool 60-mile bike ride in 2014 and 2015.
Now she has teamed up with friend Jo Cunningham to tackle a new challenge every month in 2016 to raise as much as they can for The Christie Charity.
Jo Cunningham explained: “Last summer I cycled Manchester to Blackpool with Jo for Christie’s and after listening to the presentation challenges/events I wanted us to do more.
“I came up with the idea of a challenge or event each month to raise more money for Christie’s. It’s going to be an exciting year.”
Jo’s first challenge saw her hold a charity night of drinks, nibbles and a walk up to Pots and Pans to bring in the New Year, raising £130 from donations.
Now in February the pair face a sponsored 19-mile walk from Diggle to Didsbury on Saturday, February 20, setting off at 8.30am from Diggle Day Nursery.
Then in March they are holding a Ladies Night and Jo Cunningham is entering her first 32-mile Ultra Run, Howarth Hobble, and there are plenty of events planned for months ahead.
On her Just Giving Page, Jo Taylor explains: “I have treatment every three weeks for secondary breast cancer and scans every three months. This will continue for life.
“I am lucky that I have access to some great drugs that hopefully will keep me in a good remission for the near future.
“We will be doing these events not just for The Christie but for all the amazing breast cancer ladies and men we have met.
“Many, like me live with secondary breast cancer and many have also died. These events will be in memory of them all.
“I am also doing this for my wonderful Oncologist Dr Greg Wilson and his team who keep me going and able to do these challenges! A simple thank you would never be enough.”
Find out more about Jo’s story on her website: www.abcdiagnosis.co.uk or support her by donating on her Just Giving page: www.justgiving.com/Joanne-Taylor41