Exeter and Teignmouth blood cancer patients unite to host charity walk along Exe Estuary
Exeter man Jamie Lynde is joining forces with Brett Grist from Teignmouth to host the ‘Exeter Walk’, a beautiful 10-mile walk along the Exe Estuary Trail next month (Sunday 15 October) for blood cancer research charity Bloodwise. After meeting at last year’s walk, the duo - who were both diagnosed with leukaemia in 2014 - have gone on to spearhead the 2017 event, which will raise money for research into blood cancers such as leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma.
Jamie Lynde, 36, was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia in March 2014 after experiencing lower back pain but few other symptoms. An MRI scan, blood test and bone marrow biopsy confirmed that he had the disease. Although Jamie receives ongoing treatment in the form of daily medication, he is currently in remission.
Brett, 44, was told he had acute myeloid leukaemia in May 2014. He had been severely exhausted with a fever whilst on holiday. Doctors suspected malaria, and then Dengue Fever. Eventually Brett was referred to a haematologist and diagnosed with the aggressive blood cancer. Despite undergoing treatment in Torbay Hospital, Brett relapsed in 2015 and underwent further chemotherapy, followed by a stem cell transplant at Derriford Hospital. He is currently in remission.
Jamie and Brett, who have since become Ambassadors for Bloodwise, are hoping families will join them at the Exeter Walk on 15 October, starting at Exeter Quay and finishing at Exmouth.
Jamie says: “Bloodwise is the only charity in the UK that focuses all of its work on developing treatments for blood cancer, the third biggest cancer killer. I want all blood cancer patients to have access to treatments with fewer side effects that are less harsh on our bodies. My treatment is on-going, but I hope that events like the Exeter Walk will mean we can continue to invest in further research will one day lead to a cure for myself and other blood cancer patients.
“Not everyone is able to take part in a marathon or triathlon, but this walk is so accessible that everyone can get involved in the fight against blood cancer.”
Brett adds: “I am doing what I can to help Bloodwise on this walk, as the research carried out before has undoubtedly helped to save my life and has meant my kids have still got a Dad. I have however seen others, many young, who have not been so lucky.
“I will be walking with all my family again. We had a great time last year, it was really fun and a really scenic area to walk, largely flat, and suitable for everyone. We hope to see you there!”
Kindly supported by local businesses Devondale, and Puffing Billy in Exton, the walk is open to people of all ages and abilities. Entry is £15 per adult and £5 per child.
Claire Horrex, Regional Fundraising Manager at Bloodwise, says: “Jamie and Brett know only too well the importance of continuing to invest in the research that will lead to kinder, more effective treatments that limit long-term side effects and ultimately save the lives of more patients with blood cancer.
“The Exeter Walk is such a fun day out for all the family, taking a really picturesque route through the Exeter countryside. Thanks to Devondale there will also be some scrumptious flapjacks to give a little boost along the route!”
To sign up visit www.bloodwise.org.uk/exeter-walk
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