Carolyn becomes a real biker babe

Carolyn took the decision to take part in the motorcycle event to raise money for Cancer Research UK after she was diagnosed with cancer.

The Lisburn mother of two was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007. After going through extensive treatment, including surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and hormone therapy, she thought she had it beaten.

However, in 2010 she found out that the cancer had spread to her lungs. “This time telling our daughters was so difficult because we couldn’t say everything would be alright and that I would beat it again, we had to be honest and tell them that there was no cure but hoped the treatment carry on for a long, long time,” explained Carolyn.

“Currently my treatment is keeping the cancer stable. Life can be difficult at times especially if we let my situation take over but generally we take each day as it comes and lead a normal life. It is sometimes very hard for my husband Brian, as like most men they like to try and fix things and this is not something he can fix. We all have our down days but help each other with love and support to bring us back up again. My husband is my rock and I don’t know how I would cope without him and watching my daughters blossom into beautiful young women is something, three years ago, I never thought I would be able to see.”

Carolyn is thankful for the work of Cancer Research and was determined to help raise money for the vital charity.

Following her diagnosis, Carolyn made a ‘bucket list’ and one of her ambitions was to learn to ride a motocycle. She has now achieved her goal but for this fundraising event she won’t be hoping on her own bike, she will be riding pillion on her husbands hog.

“If it wasn’t for research into cancer I do not think I would be here today,” continued Carolyn. “The treatment I am on at the moment is keeping the cancer stable but that could change and I would have to try other treatments. Unfortunately the treatment options will eventually run out but hopefully that will not be for a very long, long time.

“There are so many different types of cancer and there is not a ‘fit all size’ cure. Research requires funding and without this funding further advancements cannot be made.”

To donate to this worthwhile cause go to www.justgiving.com/barry-torrens or by texting MONT 49 followed by £amount to 70070