Victoria was just 34 when she was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. She credits research and early detection for saving her life and giving her a future with her little girl, Matilda. Victoria has always been an active person, and she hasn’t let her cancer diagnosis stop her - she has raised over £3,600 to help start new cancer cures. Here are her her top fundraising tips.
There were so many low moments throughout treatment, but also many highs, I’m so proud of myself for remaining positive and physically active – it certainly wasn’t easy.
I’ve been setting myself challenges to help get my fitness back and look after my mental health – as well as raise crucial funds for Worldwide Cancer Research.
I’m proud that after my surgery I was able to run the Scottish 10km and completed my first ever duathlon (a 5km run followed by a 25km cycle and another 5km run).
Getting back into exercise has been really important to me – not just for my body physically, but also mentally. I’m still not nearly as fit as I was before the treatment, but I know that in time I’ll get back to that place. I’m trying to listen to my body and not push it too hard, but it’s so nice to start feeling like myself again. Next, I hope to complete my first ever Half Ironman!
Victoria's top fundraising tips:
Share your story
Talk to as many people as you can about your fundraising and why you are doing it. A story behind why you are fundraising and why you have picked that charity makes it personal.
Ask for support
Don’t be embarrassed to ask people for money, and no matter how much you raise, every little makes a difference.
Pace yourself
This is one for the runners! Start off with small interval runs. Don’t push yourself so hard that it’s not enjoyable as it might put you off going out again!
Find a friend
Try and find a friend to run with (or join you with whatever you're doing) it’s great motivation and makes you accountable and less likely to drop out.
Be kind to yourself
Particularly when it comes to a physical challenge - remember to take rest days and listen to your body.
We are so grateful to all of our incredible Curestarters, like Victoria, who fundraise tirelessly to support ground-breaking research. By starting new cures we will reach a day when no life is cut short by cancer. Will you join our united effort today?
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