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Breast Cancer Survivor takes on epic 500km Macmillan Cycletta Challenge
When you are undergoing radiotherapy to treat breast cancer, the last thing on your mind might be getting on a bike for the first time in years. But, for Melanie Hurley, what started as an activity to take her mind off things, give her something to focus on and get her out of the house is now, three years later, a core part of her life. The cancer is gone, but the bike has stayed the distance.
This year Melanie is participating in every single Macmillan Cycletta event across the UK, using her mighty pedal power to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support, who supported her during her gruelling treatment.
Melanie, who lives in Horsham, West Sussex with her two children and miniature schnauzer, Bertie, will cover over 500km – or half a megametre – taking part in all six Macmillan Cycletta events, the UK’s leading series of women only sportives. Currently just past the half way point, Melanie has already taken part in the events at the Wiggle Dragon Ride in Wales, and Macmillan Cycletta Bedfordshire and Scotland.
Melanie will continue Mel’s Macmillan Cycletta Challenge 2015 by cycling in Guildford, Surrey this Sunday, September 6th, then New Forest on September 20th and finishing off in Cheshire on September 27th.
Melanie bought her first road bike on eBay while going through treatment as an escape and something positive to do while undergoing radio therapy. Mel explained:
“After buying my road bike, I found myself going out cycling more and more. I had never ridden a road bike before so it was a challenge in itself! Cycling helped build my confidence back up and I really enjoyed taking my mind off the treatment. Then, I decided to sign up for a 25 mile charity bike ride that was exactly 25 days after I finished treatment. I think I was hooked after that!”
After participating in single Macmillan Cycletta events in 2012 and 2014, Melanie decided to take on all six UK-wide events the year. She explained:
“I wanted to do something that made people think, oh my God, she’s crazy! More importantly, I wanted to encourage people to donate to Macmillan because what would I have done if they hadn’t been there for me?
“When I was told I had breast cancer, my Macmillan nurse was there from the start. She took me aside and explained all about how they could help and told me I could ring her or her colleague about absolutely anything. It was instant motherly care. It was lonely going through it on my own, but they were there for me, looking after my whole care.”
As a long haul cabin crew member, Melanie has to fit her training in around her busy flying roster.
“I try to get 2-3 cycles in a week, but it really depends on my work and where I fly to. If I can, I will hire a bike while I’m away – it’s a really lovely way of getting to know places too. I’ve been flying for nearly 20 years and, as I’m a busy mum of two teenagers too, I’m used to juggling lots of things at once.”
As well as taking on her epic cycling challenge to raise funds for Macmillan, Melanie is looking forward to participating in event series and soaking up the unique and friendly atmosphere.
“I do a lot of training on my own, so I really enjoy riding in a group and having the route planned out for you. I like the camaraderie of all women cycling together all there just to enjoy the day out. I even like the medal at the end as I can bring it home and show it off to the kids!”
To make a donation to Melanie’s fundraising page go to https://www.justgiving.com/Melanie-Hurley3/
To book your place at one of the events visit: www.cycletta.co.uk