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A CANCER survivor and mum-of-two took on a 12 mile walking challenge to thank the hospital that saved her life.

Kerry Powell from Clinkham Wood was only 27 when she went for her first smear test and learned that she had cervical cancer.

The next few months saw the young mum of a five and seven year old undergo a full hysterectomy and undergo chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

She said: "I had been stupidly embarrassed and put off getting a cervical smear for two years. I was a young mum and excused my not going as lack of time.

"But for a couple of minutes of slight discomfort I ended up finding out I had cancer in 2014.

Kerry during her challenge

Kerry during her challenge

"My heart just sank, I thought I was going to die. Cancer meant death to me. And all I could think of was my kids."

After a year of treatment and follow ups, Kerry was given the all clear in 2017.

Kerry, now 33, and working as a part time care worker, said: "Now I'm doing OK I decided that I wanted to do something to thank Liverpool Women's Gynaecology and Oncology department for saving my life.

"It was difficult knowing what to do with lockdown, but I decided to walk 12 miles from my house to Knowsley Safari Park, a distance of 12.6 miles to get donations.

"I was really made up how much support I got and handing over that cheque to the hospital just meant everything to me.

"I hope my story can inspire others to get smear tests, it's not embarrassing, and a few seconds of feeling awkward could save your life."

The rest is here:
Cancer survivor takes on walking challenge to thank hospital that saved her life - St Helens Star