A Bermondsey man is walking one hundred kilometres this weekend to raise money for charity and celebrate his return to health after beating tongue cancer.
Ignaty Dyakov, 32, will walk from London to Henley over 24 hours as part of the Thames Path Ultra Challenge, a year after he was diagnosed and treated at Guy’s Hospital.
The money Ignaty raises will go to Dimbleby Cancer Care, which is in its 50th year after being set up in memory of the famous broadcaster, Richard Dimbleby.
Having received all-clear scan result in March, Ignaty said: “Throughout my treatment the charity kindly offered me the support of its services which included several sessions of reflexology, stress management training and a pillow to rest my head on.
“Most importantly was the moral support its team gave me – this was a massive boost to me getting through this journey.
“I decided to undertake this challenge not only because I want to give back to them for what they’ve done for me, but also to prove to myself personally that I am back to normal and that my stamina is as it used to be before cancer.”
Robin Pritchard, Director at Dimbleby Cancer Care, added: “After everything that Ignaty has been through the last year it is so inspiring to see him take on this challenge for us. We wish him the best of luck.”
All the money raised will go towards the charity’s Care for the Future appeal, which aims to raise £500,000 by the end of 2016 so that it can continue and expand its work within the cancer community.
To support Ignaty, visit www.justgiving.com/Dignaty