A Kendal teacher has marked the fifth anniversary of her diagnosis of, and remission from, cancer by completing an epic cycling and swimming challenge.
Jane Reedy completed the Frog Whitton Challenge, which saw her cycle 96 miles and swim six miles in four different lakes in aid of CancerCare, which provides counselling and complementary therapy for people affected by cancer or bereavement.
The event was part of Jane’s Big Five Challenge, which has already seen her complete the Cumbria Traverse run from Broughton to Keswick.
CYCLING: Jane cycled 96 miles
Ms Reedy is aiming to raise £5,000 and is already more than halfway to her target, 25 per cent of which will be donated to Cancer Research UK.
The Ghyllside Primary School teacher was referred to the charity for support when she was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in 2016, and again in 2017 when she discovered she had the BRAC1 gene, which increases a woman’s chances of developing breast and ovarian cancer.
The Frog Whitton begins in Grasmere and the route includes cycling over the thigh-busting Kirkstone, Wrynose, Honister and Hardknott passes, and swimming in Ullswater, Derwentwater, Crummock Water and Rydal Water.
Ms Reedy completed the challenge in 14 hours and 57 minutes and was supported throughout by a team of friends and family including husband Matt and daughter Tess, who helped by supplying food and drinks, transporting her bike to the end of her swims and paddling alongside her in the lake.
SUPPORT: Coming out of Ullswater
“Setting off at 5am from Grasmere was incredibly atmospheric with deserted roads, a full moon and serene lakes,” said Ms Reedy.
“During the hard sections, I reminded myself that this was a ‘chosen challenge’ and thought about all those who are facing ‘unchosen challenges’.
"I thought about the people I have met on my journey who have faced a cancer diagnosis or lost those they love.
FINISH LINE: Jane Reedy at the finish with daughter Tess and husband Matt
“It was a truly memorable day and all that I could have ever wanted for myself and those involved.
“The final swim in Rydal was quite a spectacle with swimmers aged from nine to 70 in the water.
"I would like to thank everyone of them, plus all those who have supported me with the ‘Big Five’ and through the past five years.”
Ms Reedy’s next challenge is set to be swimming the length of Coniston later in the summer.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here