In 2016, 10 years ago when I was aged 42. I received the devastating news that I had stage 3 breast cancer.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of my diagnosis and I feel so lucky to be alive and that this milestone is one certainly worth celebrating!

In 2018 I was fortunate enough to benefit from participating in a course run by a small charity called Odyssey. This course was life changing for me. Odyssey help anyone who has been through a cancer diagnosis and treatment.

They help people regain their self-confidence and enjoyment of life after a cancer diagnosis.

I vowed to do something to raise funds following my Odyssey experience.

So now is the time! Odyssey are running an expedition in Sweden this September.

We will be canoeing the Harken River, over a seven day period, wild camping and cooking over fire for the duration.

In January 2026, Team Canoe Believe, was born. Together with my best friend’s, Aileen McGettrick & Sally Baldry we will attempt this challenge.

Aileen and I have been friends for 40+ years, when I mentioned to her my idea she was keen to jump on board.

I met Sally through Soul Choirs, where we discovered we had both been diagnosed with breast cancer weeks apart in 2016. She is also celebrating 10 years this year, so I managed to rope her in as well!

The funds we raise will go directly to Odyssey. This will enable others to participate in future Odyssey events.

Odyssey is a hugely underfunded, small charity.

All of us have been affected by cancer either directly, or have watched a loved one battle.

Our target is huge, but the rewards will be priceless. However much you can afford is appreciated hugely.

Thank you in advance for taking the time to read our story. Please follow our social media for updates on our training and eventually to follow our expedition.

We will be arranging several big events this year and we hope you can support us…….

WATCH THIS SPACE!