Cancer is now out in the open where we can fight it and we can beat it. It seems everyone we talk to has a cancer story, these are ours:
Sue' story:
Steve Chevrolle rescued me from a marriage punctuated by systematic physical and mental abuse. As my best friend, he protected me and kept me sane whilst I coped with threats and intimidation, all courtesy of my ex-husband and his family. Eventually, romance blossomed between us. We settled down together and were deliriously happy. Steve was a true bon vivant and our life was a wonderful round of cycle racing, audax and fine food until, in the summer of 1997, Steve was diagnosed with melanoma. By the time signs had become visible his condition was already terminal; we were bereft of any realistic hope for his survival.
The cancer was aggressive and it spread mercilessly. In defiance, we continued to bike until a tumor in Steve’s groin prevented him from lifting his legs so as to turn the crank. Robbed of his ability to cycle and his appetite for pain and treatment substantially eroded, on April 4, 1999 Steve decided to stop fighting his cancer.
It was with the greatest difficulty that I gave his decision deference. Steve died in May of that year and, to be candid, for several months thereafter I struggled to find a reason to get up each morning. But for the support of friends, family and kind strangers, I might not have got back on an even keel. I am no longer embittered; to the contrary, Steve’s peaceful acceptance of his fate now inspires. To have shared even a few years with this remarkable man was, quite simply, awesome.
From now until June 27, come hail or shine, I will be doing my part so you and your family can have credible hope in the face of cancer. Please consider donating to this worthy cause."
Janine's Story
It was August 2007 I was diagnosed with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML). My doctor broke the news on a Friday and advised I was to begin my first of four rounds of chemotherapy that Sunday. I had family to care for, work to do, events to attend, trips booked. Everything stops and you don’t know if you’ll ever resume them or not. My illness was discovered early due to regular blood testing which proved to be a blessing in disguise. AML progresses rapidly and is typically fatal within weeks or months if left untreated.
Each round of chemotherapy was more difficult than the one previous. Chemotherapy makes you extremely sick in order to make you well again. My husband Steve and true partner in life spent his days at work and evenings and weekends in the hospital with me, and still managed to keep the home front going. His support along with the support of my kids, extended family, wonderful friends and even friends I didn’t realize I had, kept me going through the very darkest time of my life. I lived for breaks at home between treatments and Steve helped me count the days with “X’s & O’s” on my whiteboard. Many AML patients follow chemotherapy with a bone marrow transplant. My siblings were tested and were not a match. Fortunately I did not need the transplant.
One year later I returned to work with a new attitude and appreciation for life. Although I enjoy my work, I work less hours and play and travel more. I talk to my family and friends more. I took up scuba diving. Each new experience holds a special beauty for me. I enjoy “the simple things” more and appreciate all that I have in a way I never did before. I survived my treatments and have been in remission for two years. The goal is five years remission before I’m considered cured.
This experience changed my life and the lives of my family. I am eternally grateful for the care and treatments I received and a doctor who knew what to do and when to do it. I consider myself one of the “lucky ones” who made it through. Survival rates are increasing and will continue to increase with further research. Please consider supporting the Revay Ride Team in their efforts.
Jonathan's story:
For my story please go to my personal page (click on Jonathan Harrop below)
Martin's story:
For my story please go to my personal page (click on Martin Gough below)

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