Kat's Karapoti ride for bowel cancer awareness

Did you know bowel cancer takes as many kiwi lives every year as breast and prostrate cancer combined?

In mid 2014 at age 36 I was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer.

I had no family history of bowel cancer, and have to admit I was pretty sure I wouldn't get bowel cancer as I thought it was something only people over 50 get. Oh how I was wrong.

Bowel cancer is not just something only older people get, or is something you only get if you have a family history. Anyone can get bowel cancer.

It took me over a year to complete my treatment (Radiotherapy, Chemotherapy, and several surgeries).

I now consider myself one of the lucky ones. I was lucky enough to get a diagnosis early, and am now cancer free. Unfortunately not everyone is as lucky as me.

On March 5th this year I will ride the 50km Karapoti classic mountain bike race. This is the longest running mountain bike race in the southern hemisphere. www.karapoti.co.nz

Whilst I am not the fastest (my speed can be compared to a herd of turtles running through peanut butter), and by no means and I going to get on the podium, getting to the start line is just as good as winning for me. Its been a long journey.

If you're interested here is my story:

http://resultsmayvarycancersucks.blogspot.co.nz

My aim for riding this race is to not only push myself and gain some control that I lost through cancer, but to also raise some awareness for bowel cancer.

This page has been developed so that funds raised can go towards increasing education and awareness of this horrible cancer.

By donating to this page you are supporting a great charity, one that is not government funded.

The earlier someone is diagnosed the better their outcome.

Bowel Cancer New Zealand is a national charity for people and their families/whanau affected by bowel cancer. We are working to raise awareness of symptoms, promote early diagnosis and encourage fair and affordable access to treatment for all Kiwis.