Our Community Champion this evening is a very inspirational lady who has not only fought cancer, but since finishing her treatment in July 2015, has gone on to raise over £15,000 for charity.  

Nichola Whymark was diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer in September 2013, undergoing a lumpectomy, chemotherapy and double mastectomy in May 2014.

Whilst still undergoing treatment, Nichola completed the London Marathon in 2015, raising nearly £8,000 for Cancer Research UK alongside her brother. An incredible achievement for anyone, let along someone who is undergoing intensive chemotherapy treatment. 

To mark the end of her treatment, Nichola created ‘40 Before the Big 40’ whereby she aims to complete 40 challenges before her 40th birthday, raising funds for Cancer Research UK and Woolverstone Macmillan Centre at Ipswich Hospital. 

So far Nichola has completed 28 challenges including; learning to windsurf; climbing Mount Snowdon; completing two triathlons; two marathons and three cycle rides not to mention dancing with Ms Dynamite in Ibiza. She also plans to learn how to scuba dive, ski and plaster a wall in the new year. 

Nichola rounds off her Big 40 challenge on her birthday with a big prize draw, with items donated by local business up for grabs. 

With incredible support from family, friends and the general public, Nichola has taken a devastating and life-changing situation and turned it into something positive.

We are full of nothing but admiration for Nichola and everyone at ITFC fully supports her in her endeavours. 

For more information on Nichola’s challenge or to support her efforts, please visit www.virginmoneygiving/team/Nics40BeforeTheBig40

If you know someone who deserves some recognition for doing something special, going above and beyond, shown a huge amount of bravery or given up their time for a local charity, or maybe they’ve shown kindness towards others or deserve a bit of recognition for overcoming adversity, then email your nomination to jade.cole@itfc.co.uk.