This is the story of Michelle Leanne Whiteman (nee Mitchell) and the story of why I have set the goal of attempting the Guinness World Record for Most Chest-To Ground Burpees in 24 hours for Breast Cancer Now. I will attempt this record on the 23rd of September, 2023 at JD Gyms Preston who I'd like to thank for supporting this cause following them turning 24 hours only 3 days before on the 19th September.  

About Michelle: 

Michelle sadly lost her battle with secondary breast cancer on October the 12th, 2022 at 38 years of age. Michelle was born on the 16th November 1983. 

She was a loving Mother to her 3 children. Though she was a step mother to one, she welcomed them home without any hesitation. Her husband is now adapting to life as a single parent and as a widow, they both were the perfect match. Her younger siblings have to adapt to life without our big sister and in so many ways, our second Mother. Her Mother, has to come to terms with the order of life that was not meant to be. Her friends and the community she upheld is forever changed. One month before her 39th birthday, Michelle left us far too young. 

Michelle was originally diagnosed with breast cancer back in 2019, and whilst we thought her treatment was successful, she was informed of secondary breast cancer July 2022, we had no idea that we'd be saying goodbye that very year. 

Michelle lived and breathed selflessness. Her children are examples of children who received unconditional Motherly love. Michelle loved being a Mother and a wife, it was the perfect role for her selfless nature. Michelle was obsessed with making sure others were okay, even right up until her final moments, she had little left to give and she continued to give it.

Michelle wore a bangle on her arm  "you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think". We used to banter her for her "live laugh love" style quotes she had around the house. “LiV LAfF Luv!” we’d shout and she’d roll her eyes and chuckle away. It was only in those final moments, I really saw that bangle on her arm. She was brave. She was strong. She made us laugh at a time when we were meant to be in despair.

I've ran the London Marathon in honour of Michelle and the unwavering endurance she showed. I ran it in a Bulldog Tactical Weight Vest as a tribute to the way that Michelle made a conscious effort to carry those around her during what was, quite literally, a battle for her life. I ran the London Marathon to show my nieces and nephews positive coping mechanisms and responses for bereavement.

I want to pay tribute to Michelle's Legacy, constantly. Attempting the GWR for Most Burpees in 24 hours is another way of paying tribute Michelle's resilience. Her ability to fall down and get up over and over again is how I will connect with her during this challenge. As Michelle fought to spend another day with her children, it has inspired a resilience in all of those around her.

Michell always wanted to raise funds for Breast Cancer Now who are leading the charge in Secondary breast (metastatic) cancer research. Secondary breast (metastatic) cancer occurs when breast cancer cells spread from the first (primary) cancer in the breast through the lymphatic or blood system to other parts of the body. There are an estimated 61,000 people living with secondary breast cancer in the UK. In around 5% of women, breast cancer has already spread by the time it is diagnosed. While it cannot be cured, there are treatments that can help control certain forms of the disease for some time and relieve symptoms to help people live well for as long as possible. You can read more about the research at Breast Cancer Now through their website.

Michelle unfortunately only managed an extra 3 months following her secondary breast cancer diagnosis. However, raising these funds will offer more women time on earth and time with their families. 

Raising these funds will support research into breast cancer and secondary breast cancer. 

Raising these funds will help fund the research into breast cancer prevention.

Raising these funds is what Michelle’s legacy deserves.

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