I have been a proud supporter of 40tude from the very start. In fact, this will be my lucky 13th challenge (I have already completed 3 cycles, 6 paddle board marathons and 3 previous treks). The Mardi Himal Lynch Syndrome Awareness Challenge will not be a walk in the park: the majority of the 5 day trek is at altitude as we are attempting to reach Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 metres. This is new adventure for me as previous trekking experience has taken me to the desert. Mountain trekking is a completely different animal - especially in the Himalayas. Fingers crossed that we adapt well to the rigours of the altitude!

Having undertaken so many 40tude challenges, this charity clearly means a lot to me. Why? Because colon cancer, and particularly Lynch Syndrome, runs in my family and in the families of many new friends I have made along the way. I’m trekking to help improve outcomes for those facing colon cancer and prevent new cases from occurring.

Lynch Syndrome is a common genetic condition causing an increased risk of some cancers, including bowel, womb and ovarian cancers. This trek in particular will fund the Lynch Syndrome Cancer Prevention Study at St. Mark’s Hospital, the National Bowel Hospital. We hope that further research into inheritable cancers and increased awareness and screening for colon cancer can help save lives in the future. Colon cancer is one of the easiest cancers to treat if detected early through regular screening. For more information on signs and symptoms, where and how to get screened, outcomes, Lynch Syndrome or any related topics, please refer to 40tude.org.uk.

Thank you in advance for your support. Remember to get screened for colon cancer regularly from your mid 40’s. Pass it on! Together we can cure colon cancer.

Amy Noering