Cancer in family inspires climber

Dalyellup mother of six Amanda Draper says climbing Mount Kilimanjaro will be more relaxing then her day-to-day life.

‘‘No one will be asking me ‘are we there yet?’,’’ Mrs Draper said.

The 12-day hike is in aid of Cure Cancer, an Australian foundation set up to fund cancer research and Mrs Draper aims to raise $8500 for the cause.

Mrs Draper’s son Andrew has been her inspiration for the trek after he was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 10.

‘‘It is only because of cancer research that I am lucky enough to still have him today,’’ she said.

‘‘As a mother (and foster mother) I have faced many challenges, but I believe that this challenge can help many other people who are not yet aware of how cancermay affect them, or their families, in the future.’’

MrsDraper said her usual exercise was ‘‘running late’’ but had to step up her workouts to prepare for the ascent of the African mountain.

Since Andrew finished his treatment in September Mrs Draper has lost 27kg during her training.

Booked to leave on February 15, Mrs Draper said she expected to lose another 10kg and become fit enough to complete this challenge.

Those interested inmaking contributions to Mrs Draper’s fundraising can go to http://climbforacure2012.gofundraise.com.au/page/DraperA.