Gemma Sykes, who works at Linnaeus-owned West Midlands Referrals (WMR) in Burton-on-Trent, took on the ‘100 miles in May’ challenge to raise money for Cancer Research UK.
WMR Vet Nurse Gemma In 100-mile Mission For Charity
11 months ago 
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A Staffordshire veterinary nurse has completed a 100-mile charity walk in memory of her best friend who sadly died from cancer.
Gemma Sykes, who works at Linnaeus-owned West Midlands Referrals (WMR) in Burton-on-Trent, took on the ‘100 miles in May’ challenge to raise money for Cancer Research UK.
Gemma said the tragic loss of a close friend in 2016 was the inspiration behind her fundraising mission.
She explained: “I decided to complete the challenge firstly in memory of my best friend Sarah who we sadly lost to cancer back in 2016 at only 28 years old.
“Secondly, my dad, Jon, was diagnosed with prostate cancer last year and has since undergone a prostatectomy. Fortunately, and thankfully, he is doing really well!
“I also have two grandparents who survived lung and breast cancer which is why Cancer Research is a charity close to my heart.
“I felt I wanted to do my bit, however small, to aid with funding and help find a cure for this terrible illness that sadly is now so common.
“I thought I would test myself and try to complete the '100 miles in May challenge' which, as a busy mom of two young children, was quite tough!
“I found it hard at times but very enjoyable to just be out in nature, normally with nothing but my crazy labradoodle Ned as company.
“My family also joined me on several of my walks which were mostly completed over Cannock Chase.
I saw some beautiful sights that I probably wouldn't have seen as I was tending to go out early in the morning or later at night.
“In the end I completed 100.18 miles and I would urge anyone to take on a challenge such as this. Knowing you are doing it for a charity really motivates you! Not to mention helping with fitness!
“I am potentially looking at a charity sky dive next year with a few colleagues, again most likely raising money for cancer. Otherwise, I would definitely look at another walking or maybe a swimming type challenge.”
There is still time to donate to Gemma’s charity appeal by visiting: visit: https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/gemmas-giving-page-2460
WMR provides a wide range of high standard veterinary services delivered by experienced clinicians and supported by state-of-the-art facilities to facilitate accurate diagnosis and treatment.
For more information about WMR, visit www.wm-referrals.com or search for West Midlands Veterinary Referrals on social media.
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