Two Addingham residents, Rowan Sutcliffe (20) and Ryan Womersley (32), have completed a remarkable challenge to raise money for Sarcoma UK, just months after both received life-changing cancer diagnoses.
Rowan was diagnosed with primary cardiac angio sarcoma at 17, one of the rarest and most aggressive heart cancers. After extensive treatment, his tumour was successfully removed in late 2023.
Earlier this year, Ryan was diagnosed with epithelioid sarcoma, another rare and aggressive soft tissue cancer. He has since undergone surgery and a course of radiotherapy.
Together, the two friends decided to channel their experiences into action organising a 10km stretcher race from The Fleece in Addingham to the top of Beamsley Beacon and back, reaching more than 1,300 feet in elevation.
Joined by Ryan’s former Royal Marine colleagues and cheered on by residents, the event raised funds and awareness for Sarcoma UK, which supports research, treatment and advocacy for people affected by this rare cancer.
The event was supported by Addingham Civic Society, which donated £500, as well as The Fleece and many local volunteers who helped marshal the route.
To support Rowan and Ryan’s campaign, residents can visit their JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/emma-sutcliffe-6.
Robbie Moore MP said:
“Rowan and Ryan really are an inspiration. To face what they’ve faced and still find the strength to take on a challenge like this is extraordinary. It was a privilege to see them set off from The Fleece and to see the huge turnout of support from across Addingham and beyond. If you haven’t done so, and wish to support Rowan and Ryan - on their fundraising efforts for Sarcoma UK , you can do so by visiting https://www.justgiving.com/page/emma-sutcliffe-6. Well done lads - huge admiration for you both.”
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