A cancer survivor from Ramsey is aiming for a personal record-breaking performance in this year’s Parish Walk and to raise money for a charity.

Caroline Kelly’s previous best Parish Walk saw her reach Lezayre in 2016, but she wants to go further, and - if she feels strong enough - will try to finish the entire 85 miles all the way to Douglas.

’I’ve taken part in the Parish Walk six times, and - just like lots of others - the dream is to finish,’ she said.

’I feel better this year than I have for some time, and I will give it my best shot. It would be fantastic to get to the finishing line.’

In the summer of 2016 Caroline discovered breast cancer at the age of 41 when on holiday. She noticed a lump while applying sun lotion. On arriving home, she immediately spoke to her doctor and was diagnosed within a month.

By November 2016 she had been referred to Liverpool to undergo surgery, followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy, with treatment ending in July 2017.

However, while still undergoing treatment, she managed to get to her Parish Walk target of reaching Peel (32.5 miles) in 2017, but she admitted it was really difficult, although she found that training for the event kept her active, and helped her cope.

Caroline has also taken part in a number of other walking events, including the End to End which she also completed in 2017.

In the Parish Walk she has reached Peel (twice), Jurby, Bride (twice) and Lezayre. For the 2019 event Caroline is raising money for Isle of Man Breast Care who she said provided fantastic support during her period of treatment.

’They could not have been more understanding and supportive,’ she said. ’I cannot speak highly enough of them for their emotional support during what was a very difficult time for our family.

’I want to raise as much money as I possibly can to say thank you to Isle of Man Breast Care for their fantastic support.’

â?¢ To support Caroline’s Parish Walk efforts, she has created a Just Giving page www.justgiving.com/fundraising/caroline-kelly16