Survivor goes dry to raise funds

Sharon Quennell from Oldham promotes Cancer Research UK's Dryathlon this September. Picture by Paul Heyes, Tuesday August 02, 2016.

A CANCER survivor is kick-starting Cancer Research UK's Dryathlon campaign and encouraging Oldhamers to quit booze in September to help raise vital funds.

Sharon Quennell, from Chadderton, is urging men and women to take on Dryathlon, a challenge inviting social drinkers to take a month-long break from alcohol, raising money through sponsorship or donating the cash they would have spent on booze to the charity.

The 52-year-old is supporting the fundraising drive after experiencing how research carried out Cancer Research UK's doctors, nurses and scientists can make an important difference to people.

The mum-of-one was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000 at the age of 36 after noticing a lump on her left breast and underwent surgery followed by 12 weeks of chemotherapy.

But thankfully Sharon, who works at North Manchester General Hospital, made a good recovery.

She said: "It was a terrible shock when I was diagnosed, but thanks to research I'm still here.

"I'm calling on men and women across Greater Manchester to help get September off to a flying start by taking on the Dryathlon challenge.

"They can achieve personal glory by banning the booze for a month and raising money for research."

Supporters can register as individuals or set up a team by getting friends, colleagues or relatives involved to motivate each other along the way.

Last year an impressive 9,841 people took part in the North West, raising £656,556 to help beat 200 types of cancer sooner.

Jane Bullock, North West Cancer Research UK spokesperson, said: "We're delighted Sharon is helping us to highlight Dryathlon this September. We hope she will inspire others to say 'cheers to no beers' and sign up today.

"It takes stamina and real commitment to stay the course. We hope family and friends will rally round and support our Dryathletes to go the distance for a brilliant cause."

To take on Dryathlon in September, visit: www.dryathlon.org