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A father and daughter are preparing to embark on a 66-mile cycle around Loch Ness in a bid to raise money for an incurable blood cancer charity.
James and Katie Rice have already smashed their fundraising target with over £1700 raised since the start of the month, as they get ready to tackle the Etape Loch Ness in April.
The pair are raising funds for Myeloma UK – a charity chosen by Katie after her dad James was diagnosed with the disease in 2021.
James (54), who lives in Dingwall, first felt a pain in his leg in November 2020. It wasn’t until May the next year that he was diagnosed with myeloma – an incurable blood cancer which affects the bone marrow.
After hearing his diagnosis, he received chemotherapy and other combined treatments, before undergoing extensive stem cell treatment later the same year.
Regular blood tests have revealed that the cancer has now been suppressed, as James’ daughter Katie explains.
She said: “Despite all of (his treatments), my dad’s unwavering positivity and strength has been inspiring. He has responded so well to treatment that the cancer is currently undetectable.”
“When my dad was diagnosed, I knew immediately that I wanted to raise money for Myeloma UK – the only UK charity focused on the discovery, development and access to new effective treatments for the disease. Myeloma UK rely solely on voluntary donations and fundraising activities.
“As myeloma is currently an incurable cancer, a huge difference could be made to the length and quality of life for those living with the disease through fundraising – including my dad.
“He was diagnosed with cancer at a time when visitors to the hospital were prohibited, and somehow he processed the news alone for over 2 weeks. Since his diagnosis, he has had major surgery and various treatments, including very intensive stem cell therapy.
“At the moment, it seems he will be treated for cancer for the rest of his life, but there is absolutely no way that is stopping him. He has gone from hobbling around on crutches post-surgery, to climbing Munros and cycling many miles. His strength and determination during this new chapter of his life is inspiring.”
“What I didn’t know when I decided to raise money was that my dad would be able to join me in the challenge of cycling Etape Loch Ness – and will no doubt be leading the way for team ‘Ricycles’!”
James, who has taken early retirement from the Police to focus on keeping healthy, said: “I am now on a lengthy road of rehab to walking and fitness. I am enjoying golf and cycling to stay healthy and living life to the max until it returns.
“My treatment has gone as good as it possibly could have. I am now on a low dose of chemotherapy to help keep it away longer, and having blood tests every 8 weeks. Being fit and healthy won’t stop you getting a disease like this but it will help you cope with the gruelling treatments.
“The charity provides support but family and friends are key. The money we raise will help towards research as there are new treatments and drug combinations emerging all the time and perhaps a cure is not too far away.”
Team “Ricycles” are raising money via JustGiving at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ricycles.
Katie added: “I am completely overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity that people have shown since I set up the fundraising page. I couldn’t believe that I met my £1000 target in just one weekend, and the donations just keep rolling in.
“I have also been touched by so many people reaching out to share words of encouragement and support – they really do go a long way.”
