Mum-of-Two Faces 35% Death Risk After Shower Discovery
Vicky Keep, a 51-year-old mother from Whitstable, Kent, was left reeling with a stark 35% chance of dying after finding a lump in her breast while showering in May 2016. Initially dismissing it as insignificant, she waited a month before visiting her GP, only to be diagnosed with stage three lobular breast cancer that had spread to her lymph nodes. Her first thought was how to break the devastating news to her two young daughters, then aged seven and twelve.
Gruelling 19-Month Battle Against Aggressive Cancer
Vicky underwent a single mastectomy, six months of chemotherapy, and daily radiotherapy, enduring a punishing 19 months of treatment. Doctors informed her that her five-year survival rate was approximately 65%, a statistic she interpreted as a 35% mortality risk. However, in January 2018, she received the life-changing news of No Evidence of Disease (Ned), marking a triumphant end to her arduous journey.
Now, a decade after her diagnosis, Vicky reflects on how cancer taught her to "not take life for granted anymore." She has since participated in various fundraising efforts, including Cancer Research's Walk All Over Cancer, but wanted to commemorate this milestone with something extraordinary.
Wild Canoe Expedition to Raise £10,000 for Charity
This September, Vicky will embark on an eight-day canoeing expedition along Sweden's Harken river, tackling rapids, portaging through dams, and wild camping in temperatures that can drop near freezing at night. She describes the challenge as "not going to be a breeze, but something that will feel like a big achievement when we do complete it." Accompanied by two close friends, she aims to raise £10,000 for Odyssey, a charity that supports cancer patients in rediscovering their zest for life through outdoor retreats.
Vicky first encountered Odyssey after her treatment, attending a retreat that transformed her outlook. "It gave me a completely different perspective on life," she shared, noting the charity's focus on pushing individuals beyond their comfort zones. The river challenge, covering 150 kilometres, includes obstacles like carrying equipment over 3.5-kilometre portages and coping without basic amenities.
Training and Personal Reflections Ahead of Adventure
In preparation, Vicky and her friends will begin training in April, focusing on front crawl swimming to build rowing muscles and sea swimming to acclimate to cold conditions. She admits to anxieties about wild camping, including the lack of toilets, but remains determined. "This is way out of my comfort zone!" she exclaimed, highlighting the personal growth she seeks from the experience.
Celebrating her 25th wedding anniversary this year with husband Gary, Vicky emphasizes the importance of making life worthwhile and counted. Her story serves as an inspiration, showing how adversity can lead to profound resilience and a renewed appreciation for every moment.
