In 2021 my sister Abi Hoyle got the news that she had an aggressive form of Breast Cancer.  Apart from the shock and mobilising of a plan, I was left with a feeling of helplessness.

Abi is a Paediatric Emergency Care Consultant who works in the NHS, she has significant experience in A&E’s across the UK and in parallel has worked on patient transportation via Embrace. Abi also worked in the Nightingale North West in 2020.

Alongside her NHS work, Abi has risen to the rank of Colonel with the Territorial Army, with a focus on managing Paediatric Policy across all the UK Military services as a Defence Consultant Advisor.  She has also spent time supporting military and civilians whilst on tour in Afghanistan.  

She is also an awesome Auntie and sister.  

I know.  Absolute Bad Ass!

2021 was a horrible year for many reasons.  I wanted to do something to acknowledge the amazing support that Abi received from Weston Park over the course of 2021.

I walked into 2022 the most unfit I have ever been.  Triathlons and Triathletes are completely outside my usual focus.  So it’s a horrible challenge for me to complete.  But my challenge is nothing compared to the challenge Abi faced in 2021.

My original aim was to get fit for an event in September 2022.  Lots of time to prepare and get fit.  There is absolutely plenty of evidence to support that a drunken night and lots of bravado led to me booking this Sprint Triathlon in May and accelerating the entire process (whilst adding some significant pressure to myself!).

At least one person has said that I am mad.

I have not run outside in 3 years, ridden a bike further than the pub in 5 years or swam more than the width of the Jacuzzi for even longer…

It won’t be pretty.  It won’t be fast.  But with your help and encouragement I can make sure that I can get around the event. 

Here are some details on Weston Park Cancer Hospital:

During these challenging times, Weston Park Cancer Charity promises to be there for patients and their families, together at every step. From supporting NHS staff at Weston Park Hospital in Sheffield to providing support via our helpline, its our job to care in every sense for patients and their families struggling with the practical, emotional and financial challenges due to the Coronavirus outbreak.Being there at every step, means finding new ways to reach people affected by cancer, during the pandemic.