A HOLME Valley mum is to go on the bike ride of her life in memory of a friend she lost to cancer.
Paula Moss, 46, from Hepworth, will cycle 370 kilometres (231 miles) across Cuba in November to raise money for charity Women for Women.Š
The mum-of-two, who will be joined at the event by friend Emma Kirkby-Geddes, 40, also from Hepworth, signed up for the fundraising event in memory of Sarah Lubinski.Š
Sarah, a ceramicist who was 36 and lived in Armitage Bridge, died in January, 2006, leaving husband Gareth Howell and their daughter Robyn, now eight.
Paula said: “Even though neither Emma or myself are cyclists we didn’t hesitate to take up this challenge.
“It’s a very personal thing. Sarah didn’t have a choice; I do. It’s really upsetting to feel so helpless when someone close to you is in that position. This is just a way of giving something back.”
Sarah underwent brain surgery twice to remove a tumour, as well as radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
She defied the odds to survive for three years after her diagnosis.Š
Her mother, Janet, said: “She was a quiet woman, but she had an inner strength and she was extremely brave throughout her illness and didn’t let it stop her.”Š
She added: “What Paula and Emma are doing is fantastic. It’s an amazing cause, but one we don’t hear about that often.”Š
Paula and Emma need to raise £5,000 each to be able to do the cycle ride.Š
The money will pay for research by women scientists and clinicians into conditions that affect women and their babies.Š
Paula said: “With the money raised and the research it will pay for, hopefully we can help prevent another child living without their mother.”Š
To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/paulamoss or www.justgiving.com/emmakirkby-geddesŠ
