A COWBRIDGE resident will start this week on a marathon trek to raise money for Velindre Hospital. The charity challenge is called ‘Miles for Melanoma’.
On Friday, 16th August, Gareth Petty will set out from Llandudno, intending to walk from the north of Wales to the south – finishing in Cowbridge on Sunday, 25th August. He hopes to celebrate with a welcome party at the Cross Inn, Llanblethian.
The distance is 180 miles, so it will mean averaging 18 miles a day. Gareth will have plenty of moral support, with four friends accompanying him. A big help has come from Adrian Evans of Bridgend Leisure Vehicles, who has made two camper vans available so that Gareth and his support team can sleep well on the overnight stops.
Talking about his determination to help Velindre, Gareth said: “One morning in August last year I was drying myself after a shower when I rubbed a mole on my back that I’d had for as long as I can remember. The mole bled a little so a few days later I went to see my GP who referred me to the Dermatology Department at University Hospital Wales.
“It turned out to be melanoma and the treatment involved multiple scans, two operations to remove the area around the mole and lymph nodes from under my right arm. I am now receiving Immunotherapy treatment for Stage 3 Melanoma at Velindre Hospital, Cardiff.
“My reasons for undertaking this challenge are:
1/ To raise awareness of the disease and the importance of regular body checks and early detection.
2/ To say a huge thank you for the fantastic care I’ve had from the amazing NHS staff.
3/ To raise money for Cancer research.
“All donations will be greatly appreciated and if you’d like to join me at any stage during the walk please call me on 07932 947777. If anyone would care to donate to my appeal, please go to here.
Gareth started his challenge with a modest target of £1,000 and he is delighted with the response. As the Glamorgan Star went to press on 7th August, the money raised had passed £3,500!
By Philip Irwin – Senior Reporter
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