The Cause:

I am raising money for the charity Prevent Breast Cancer the only UK charity funding ground-breaking research solely aimed at preventing breast cancer for future generations.

This research means a lot to our family, as my wife, Helen, has bravely taken the choice to have preventative surgery later this year to reduce her risk of developing breast cancer. 

Helen made this decision because in 2015 my sister in law, Laura, was diagnosed with breast cancer aged 29, this was devastating news and a shock to our family. Thankfully, following successful surgery and chemotherapy, after a very tough year Laura was given the all clear. 

During the course of her treatment we found out that Laura and Helen have the BRCA1 gene mutation, meaning that they have a much higher risk of breast and Ovarian cancer.

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in the UK but detection and survival rates have improved greatly over the past few decades.  Further research could allow earlier detection and treatment.  Identifying risk factors, such as the BRCA1 gene defect can allow people to take preventative actions greatly reducing their chance of developing cancer.

https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/genetics/brca-fact-sheet

The Event:

Wooler Trail Marathon is set in the heart of Northumberland National Park near the Cheviot Hills. This is a 28.5 mile Trail Marathon with just over 6000 feet of ascent including a climb to the summit of "the Cheviot", the highest summit in the Cheviot Hills.

http://www.trailoutlaws.com/wooler.php

https://www.strava.com/athletes/amaloyd