David and Sarah’s Ultra Challenge

On Saturday 6th July, the wonderful duo, David and Sarah completed the Peak District Ultra Challenge which consisted of walking 50km in one day! David was successfully treated for melanoma skin cancer before unfortunately being diagnosed with stage 3 mucosal melanoma, a rare form of melanoma, he is now responding well to treatment. They raised over £4,000 with the aim of making a difference and helping others who have had to tackle the ups and downs that a cancer diagnosis can bring.  

Hear more from David about this challenge: 

Sarah and I have come to learn a lot about melanoma over the last couple of years, as I was successfully treated for early stage skin cancer, before then unfortunately being diagnosed with stage 3 mucosal melanoma, one of the rarest melanoma cancers there is which is also one of the most difficult to treat due to so little being known about it at present. 

One major operation, resulting in a new way of life, followed by monthly Immunotherapy to treat a recurrence of the cancer last year, and we are thriving. I’m doing really well, feel fantastic and responding well to the treatment. In addition to the wonderful care I’ve received at my hospital, Sarah has supported me in changing my diet, physical health and mental wellbeing to feel literally bursting with energy to take on this challenge! I’m very lucky….. 

We aim to make a difference in helping others who have had to tackle the ups and downs that a cancer diagnosis can bring. I am in no doubt that everything we have done to transform my way of life, alongside the amazing Immunotherapy, is why I am making the progress I am in controlling the disease. We want to help Melanoma Focus help others in our position at the same time as assisting the medical professionals to learn more about these rare and aggressive forms of melanoma which we have learnt so much about over the last 18 months. Our goal is that in the future others should feel confident to handle the challenges a diagnosis like this can present with positivity and optimism. 

We are beyond grateful to David and Sarah for completing this epic challenge! A huge well done and thank you to you both!  

If David and Sarah’s Ultra challenge has inspired you, you explore more Ultra Challenges here.