In a remarkable display of courage and resilience, a Fife woman diagnosed with incurable stage four ovarian cancer is defying expectations by preparing to undertake Sir Chris Hoy’s demanding cycling challenge in Glasgow. Rae Hyndman’s inspiring journey aims not only to raise vital funds but also to fundamentally shift public perceptions about living with advanced cancer.

Rae’s health ordeal began in late November 2023 when she noticed alarming stomach swelling. Initially attributing her symptoms to Irritable Bowel Syndrome, the 60-year-old sought medical advice from her GP, leading to her urgent hospital admission for comprehensive investigation.

Subsequent thorough blood tests confirmed a devastating diagnosis: advanced ovarian cancer. The disease had aggressively spread throughout her body, affecting critical organs including her fallopian tubes, womb, liver, spleen, appendix, both large and small bowels, diaphragm, and the omentum, a vital fatty tissue that protects abdominal organs.

Despite the profound challenges of her diagnosis, Rae has committed herself to the Tour de 4, a significant charity cycling event established by Olympic legend Sir Chris Hoy. This initiative is specifically designed to generate crucial funds for cancer research, highlighting the ongoing battle against this pervasive disease.

Sir Chris Hoy himself, having recently shared his own stage four cancer diagnosis, launched the Tour de 4 to challenge prevailing misconceptions. Rae resonates deeply with his experience, acknowledging the common misbelief that a stage four diagnosis signifies the end of activity and vitality.

“I feel as healthy as I did before the diagnosis,” Rae powerfully stated, echoing Sir Chris Hoy’s sentiment that life can indeed continue with stage four cancer. Her determination to convey this message underscores a vital paradigm shift in understanding what it means to live with advanced illness.

For the challenge, Rae has enthusiastically registered for the demanding 56-mile Red Route, a road cycle she will undertake alongside her daughter Emma, a supportive friend, and her dedicated cycling trainer, Graham Barclay. This collective effort symbolizes the strong support network bolstering her resolve.

Beyond the physical endeavor, Rae’s primary objective is to raise significant funds for Ovarian Cancer Action. Furthermore, she is passionately committed to leveraging her personal narrative to heighten awareness among women regarding the often-subtle symptoms and critical importance of early diagnosis for ovarian cancer.

Her advocacy aligns closely with Sir Chris Hoy’s own campaign for improved screening methodologies. Rae firmly believes that a similar robust screening program is desperately needed for ovarian cancer, empowering women with earlier diagnoses and better chances for successful intervention and management.