The Road to Poland

Cancer survivor gears up for marathon bike ride

A pancreatic cancer survivor, who was treated by staff at Hammersmith Hospital, is set to cycle 950 miles across Europe in a charity bike ride to raise awareness about the disease.

48-year-old Les Niewiara, who received his treatment five years ago, will begin his epic journey on Thursday (24 July) and finish in Poland on 7 August, as part a campaign to raise money for Pancreatic Cancer UK. 

Before he sets off, Niewiara will be joined by Hammersmith Hospital staff, many of whom were involved in his treatment, in a sponsored bike ride around the 4km bike course at Wormwood Scrubs.

They will be trying to complete as many circuits as possible in one hour.

Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust dietician, Julie Beckerson, who will be taking part in the ride, said: "Les was referred to me for dietary advice when he was having treatment. I want to show my support for what I think is a fantastic and worthwhile cause."

Les, who has two teenage daughters, said: "I'm one of the 7,000 people who were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2003. Only 200 of us will be alive by the end of this year. Pancreatic cancer has the lowest annual survival rate of any cancer. As one of the survivors I think it is important to make a noise about this."

Pancreatic cancer is often difficult to detect.  Although, 63 per cent of people diagnosed are over the age of 70, by the time symptoms appear and diagnosis is given, the cancer is often too advanced to be treated by surgery.

Les added: "People participating in these events are lending their voices to a charity that provides support to those affected by pancreatic cancer, as well as raising awareness and funds for research."

18 July 2008