An experienced ultra-runner from Lutterworth will join a team to tackle the 50km Everyone Active East Region 9-Edges XL Challenge on May 7. Lizzie Wayt, 37, has previously completed some of the UK's toughest events and has several more lined up, but she was keen to participate in the fundraiser for Breast Cancer Now after undergoing her own breast cancer scare. She has been advised that everything is currently okay, but she remains under monitoring by her local NHS Hospital Clinical Genetics team.
Personal Motivation
Lizzie, a swim manager at Lutterworth Leisure Centre—managed by Everyone Active in partnership with Harborough District Council—said she could not pass up the opportunity to sign up for the challenge alongside colleagues from the region. Breast Cancer Now is a partner charity of Everyone Active.
Training and Fundraising
Lizzie's training has involved following her regular running schedule and going on local runs with a colleague who is also taking on the challenge. Together, they have hosted fundraising events at their leisure centres.
Lizzie said: "Being outdoors is my happy place, especially around the Peak District. During my training for this and other events, as well as everything I have gone through over the last five months, I have learned that you only have one body. You need to look after it and treat it with respect. Don't overwork yourself or abuse your body. Listen to what it's telling you, and it will protect you. Having a cancer scare is frightening, but I'm very lucky to have a close family network that has also helped support me with the genetic testing. I also believe the more we speak about breast cancer, the more people we can reach and help."
To support Lizzie and the team, visit justgiving.com/page/everyone-active-9-edges-xl-challenge.
