💪 Lifting for Sarcoma UK: My Powerlifting Challenge

I’m taking on my first ever powerlifting competition to raise funds for Sarcoma UK—a cause that’s deeply personal to me, both professionally and personally.

Why Sarcoma?

Sarcoma is a rare and complex cancer, and we still have so much to learn about its diagnosis and treatment. In 2009, we established a radiologist-led Sarcoma Pathway at University Hospitals NHS Trusts, which continues to this day, ensuring 99% of patients are seen within 2 weeks of referral. I'm also the Chair of the Peninsula Sarcoma Advisory Group.

My connection with Sarcoma UK goes beyond the clinic—I’ve worked with them on the State of the Nation report: "Unique Among Cancers", the most comprehensive review of sarcoma care across the UK.

Personally, this is close to my heart. A dear friend has successfully beaten synovial sarcoma, and a close colleague was recently diagnosed. These stories fuel my determination to make a difference.

Why Powerlifting?

Two years ago, I ran a 100K ultramarathon to raise money for Sarcoma UK and CRUK. This year, I’m taking a very different path.

At my age, I’ve learned the irrefutable benefits of strength training—especially for women. It improves muscle and bone health, and overall wellness. I'm a complete novice to powerlifting, but every day has been a learning experience.

With the support of my PT, Jero, I started training last year. A health scare briefly paused my progress, but I resumed in March 2025—and it’s been an incredible journey since.

The Challenge

🌟 I’ll be competing in my first qualifying powerlifting meet, aiming to:

Deadlift 100kg

Complete 3 lifts totalling over 160kg

A/BPU Cornwall Qualifiers WHEN? Sunday October 19th

WHERE? Revolution Fitness, St. Ives R.F.C, Alexandra Rd, Saint Ives TR26 1ER

Start time: 10am

As a vegetarian, increasing my food intake to support muscle growth has been a challenge. So has finding time to train across different cities and countries while balancing my role as Officer at the Royal College of Radiologists. But this challenge is nothing compared to what sarcoma patients face.

Help Me Make a Difference

Please support me in raising as much as possible for Sarcoma UK, so we can continue to improve outcomes for those affected by this rare cancer.

Every lift, every rep, every kg—it's all for a cause that matters