(Image: Susan Radford)
A woman who suffered a serious spinal injury earlier this year is taking on a 225-mile walking challenge to raise money for prostate cancer support.
Susan Radford from Wibsey, is walking five miles a day for 45 days in aid of Prostate Cancer Support, despite still recovering from a severe T7 wedge fracture suffered earlier this year.
The challenge began on September 30 and will finish on November 13, when Wibsey Liberal Club will host a prostate cancer awareness evening, with all proceeds going to the charity.
For Ms Radford, the fundraiser is about much more than raising money. It is also a personal milestone in her recovery.
Determined to keep moving after spinal fracture
Earlier this year, Ms Radford suffered a painful wedge fracture to her spine and was later diagnosed with the onset of osteoporosis.
Although she remained mobile, she said walking long distances became difficult and she was reluctant to push herself too hard while recovering.
After consulting medical professionals, she was encouraged to use walking as part of her rehabilitation.
She said: "Walking is the best exercise for me. The doctor said not to overdo it at first, but once I got the okay, I thought if I can walk five miles a day, I'll do it for charity."
The challenge means Ms Radford will cover at least 225 miles by November, something she admits would have seemed impossible just a year ago.
She added: "Now I can do the five miles and I'm not out of breath anymore. I'm feeling a lot better in myself."
Wibsey resident Susan Radford is walking five miles a day for 45 days to raise funds and awareness for Prostate Cancer Support. (Image: Susan Radford)
Raising money and awareness
The walking challenge is being held alongside a prostate cancer awareness event at Wibsey Liberal Club.
Ms Radford said the charitable aspect of the challenge has helped keep her motivated, even on days when she would rather stay at home.
"Because I'm doing it for charity, I've committed now," she said. "If I was only doing it for myself, I might be tempted to put it off.
"I hope people see that whatever they can do, whether it's five minutes or five miles, it's worth doing."
Donations raised through the challenge and awareness evening will go to Prostate Cancer Support, helping the charity continue its work supporting people affected by the disease.
By the time she finishes on November 13, Ms Radford hopes to have completed at least 225 miles, a remarkable achievement following a spinal injury that once left her struggling to walk far from home.