Cancer survivor’s trek of a lifetime

PAULINE Shilkin is well accustomed to a challenge. The 52-year-old has beaten breast cancer twice, overcoming major surgery and numerous rounds of chemotherapy in the process.

Now, fit and well, she has seized the opportunity to take on a different kind of challenge. Later this month, she will trek the Great Wall of China as part of the Cancer Council’s Step to Beat Cancer.

“It’s about giving people an experience, and using that as an opportunity to raise money for charity,” Shilkin explained of the initiative.

Indeed, taking on both a physical and a fundraising challenge, Shilkin has been working hard on both counts in the lead-up to the October 22 trek.

She has been doing regular hikes as well as yoga and pilates classes in preparation for the gruelling five-day trek, which will see the group tackle unrestored parts of the wall, including many tricky ascents and descents.

Having always been keen on keeping fit, “I’m starting to feel really excited,” Shilkin said. “I’ve got my good trekking boots on.”

On the fundraising side of things, at the time The AJN went to press, she was the highest fundraiser in the group of 12 going on the trip.

Through a trivia night, an afternoon tea, and general pledges from friends and relatives, Shilkin has raised more than $5000, exceeding her original goal of $3700.

She said she is thrilled about the money raised so far, and hopes to still raise more before her departure date.

“I was confident that I would make the minimum goal, because I’ve got great support. I’ve been quite humbled by people’s generosity,” she enthused.

Shilkin was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 1997. She underwent a lumpectomy and was clear from the disease for a number of years, before being diagnosed again in 2012. From that point she had a double mastectomy and several rounds of chemotherapy, and now has a clean bill of health.

Shilkin knows firsthand the great work that the Cancer Council does, having spent time working in the organisation as the manager of the Young Adult Survivorship Project.

“I have witnessed the support it offers from the inside out,” Shilkin wrote on her fundraising page.

“I can assure you from a professional and personal standpoint, when it comes to cancer research and support, they walk the talk.”

To donate, go to: https://tinyurl.com/njxacfq.

PHOEBE ROTH