Ian's 100 Mile Ride for Cancer Research in Memory of Loved Ones
For Ian Wooltorton, this year's Liverpool Chester Liverpool bike ride is far more than just a physical challenge.
Ian is taking on the gruelling route in memory of his lifelong best friend, Andy, and his sister, Zena, both of whom he heartbreakingly lost to cancer.
"My best friend Andy was diagnosed with lung cancer out of the blue. Just 16 weeks later, he passed away. We turned 50 together that year. He was the fittest guy I knew - always training, running and lifting weights. It was hard to comprehend that someone so healthy could be taken by this horrible disease."
At the same time, Ian's sister, Zena, was battling bowel cancer. She fought relentlessly for three years but sadly passed away on her 55th birthday.
"I personally lost the two people I loved and respected the most. They touched so many lives with their kindness, compassion, and love. Their light still shines through everyone who knew them."
Despite confessing he's not always been a keen cyclist, Ian is now fully committed to the sport. He trains every Sunday, braving the cold, determined to make a difference.
"I know they'd both find it funny that I now dress in Lycra every Sunday and go and put myself through a world of pain training in hopes that any funds I raise could help someone in the future. It's the least I can do and every mile of pain is well worth it."
Ian first took on the North West Cancer Research 60-mile Cycle of Hope last year, describing it as both emotional and rewarding. This year, he's stepping up and almost doubling the distance to 100 miles, as he rides once again to support North West Cancer Research.
Throughout his training, Ian has faced plenty of cold, wet, and windy conditions but he remains focussed on the bigger picture.
"The training has been so cold so far, so I'm looking forward to some sunshine to spur me on. The thing I'm most excited for is the buzz at the start line, and of course the sight of my car at the finish!"
By taking on the challenge Ian is raising vital funds for North West Cancer Research, helping to support life-saving research projects focussed on the types of cancers most prevalent in the region. Every pound raised will help fund innovative studies, improve cancer outcomes and bring us closer to a future free from cancer.
You can support Ian at: https://northwestcancerresearch.enthuse.com/pf/ian-wooltorton-18936