A Chester cancer survivor is kick-starting Cancer Research UK’s Dryathlon.
Tiffany Williams, from Blacon, is challenging men and women to ditch the drink this September to help raise vital funds.
Dryathlon is the original fundraising campaign that invites social drinkers to take a month-long break from alcohol.
Dryathletes pledge to stay dry for a month and either get sponsored or donate the money they would have spent on alcohol.
Tiffany knows all too well how important research carried out by Cancer Research UK’s doctors, nurses and scientists is to people like her.
The 20-year-old was diagnosed with Hogdkin lymphoma in 2014. She had developed lumps on her neck which she assumed were swollen glands and not a serious health issue.
Tiffany, who has a younger sister and an older brother, underwent four weeks of fertility treatment to ensure she can have children despite any side effects from the cancer treatment.
Her eggs have now been frozen for use in the future.
She also underwent chemotherapy treatment.
But despite going through treatment at the time, Tiffany still enrolled at university in Chester and is currently studying tourism management.
Tiffany said: “I’m urging everyone to register now and become a ‘dryathlete’ for Cancer Research UK. They can achieve personal glory by banning the booze for a month and raising money for life-saving research.
“It was a huge shock when I was diagnosed with cancer at such a young age, but thanks to research I am still here.
“I’m calling on men and women across Cheshire to help get September off to a flying start by taking on the Dryathlon challenge.”
Supporters can register to take part in Dryathlon as individuals or set up a team by getting friends, colleagues or relatives involved to motivate each other along the way.
Cancer Research UK spokesperson in the North West Jane Bullock said: “We’re delighted that Tiffany is helping us to highlight Dryathlon this September. We hope she will inspire others to say ‘cheers to no beers’ and sign up today.
To take on Dryathlon in September, visit www.dryathlon.org.
