Emma Williams and her colleague Dr Ceri Jones, who both work in the Cardiff Haematology department, will be taking on the challenge of London 2 Paris 2023 to help raise vital funds for Cure Leukaemia.

The two both work in the Haematology department at University Hospital of Wales and are both taking on this challenge as they work with blood cancer and leukaemia patients on a daily basis, and have seen first-hand the need for the funds that Cure Leukaemia can provide.

 

“We’re doing this to raise awareness of leukaemia and the ongoing need to fund improvement in treatment and this is a great way of doing that.
We both work with leukaemia patients on a daily basis and are committed to doing everything we can to improve the outcomes for all these patients as much as possible. We already feel that research and trials are already making a big difference in this field, and we want to support this going forward.
think we both feel privileged to have a chance to raise money for this amazing cause as we know what a difference the charity makes in treatment for these patients.”

The two will be taking on the 500km bike ride in June 2023, and will start in Greenwich Park in London, and cycle through until they reach Paris 4 days later.

“Training is going very well so far – lots more to do to make sure that it’s an enjoyable event.”

Ceri added:

“I started training in earnest in December 2022 and I’m looking forward to the weather getting better so that I can get some miles in outside as well as on the turbo trainer.
Feeling determined to make sure that I’m as fit as possible so that it’s an enjoyable rather than painful journey to Paris!”

Emma also spoke about how she has a second personal reason for taking on this challenge, on top of helping to raise funds for vital treatments.

“My son struggles with fitting in due to his Asperges and finding people to understand his areas of specialised interests.’ This is very much part of teaching him and my daughter to realise that you can put your mind to anything if you feel passionate about something. Those interests should be a blessing not a curse!

I am also keen to ride it to show how if you have a passion for something then you can achieve anything that you put your mind to!”

Emma’s friend Carol also had lymphoma and unfortunately succumb to the disease in June 2021.

“Had she been fitter, she may well have been eligible for CART that comes with the potential of a cure. As researchers we are here to look for better treatments and in doing so offer better treatment options to our patients, aiming one day for a cure.”

The two have a fundraising target of £3,000 together, with both looking to raise £1,500 individually.