Steelers supporter strides out in Scotland for cancer charity to remember fan

19th January 2016

A Sheffield Steelers fan is taking on a tremendous walking challenge in support of a specialist cancer hospital to remember a super fan of his beloved team.

Christopher Lee (28) from Gainsborough is preparing to set out on a 96 mile trek over the Scottish Highlands covering approximately 20 miles a day to raise vital funds for Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity. Unconventional sports fan, Christopher, who as well as following ice hockey, enjoys pole fitness and aerial arts in his spare time, will step out with his best friend Mike on the 19th March to take in the scenic route of the West Highland Way over a challenging 5 days. After seeing several of his family and friends fight cancer, Chris is hoping to raise over £500 to support ongoing research, treatment and care at the regions dedicated cancer hospital, Weston Park Hospital. Weston Park Hospital is one of only a handful of specialist cancer hospitals in England and treats patients from all over South Yorkshire, North Nottinghamshire and North Derbyshire a population of almost 1.8million people. Chris said, -Scotland is one of my favourite places in the UK, especially around Loch Ness and Fort William where the walk concludes. I know this is going to be a true test of endurance even for me- although I'm quite active and have done long distance walks before. -Weston Park Hospital showed unwavering support to a fellow Steeler's fan, 21 year old, Amy Usher who sadly lost her battle with cancer last March. The day my walk begins will be a poignant day as it will be exactly 1 year on from the day Amy sadly lost her battle. -In Amy's memory, I hope to complete this walking challenge and make a difference to the vital and impressive facility that provides support to so many cancer patients across South Yorkshire and beyond. Chris's 96 mile walk will take him through some of the most scenic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, encompassing Mugdock Country Park, Loch Lomund as we'll as climbing the well-known Devils staircase. Throughout 2016 Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity will fund various projects to enable the continued improvement of Weston Park Hospital; including the expansion of research studies, improving the way cancer treatments are delivered and supporting the ongoing care provisions of patients and their families affected by cancer. -Unfortunately most of us have experienced cancer in our lives, whether directly or through a loved one. The very wonderful and courageous Amy Usher was very brave and went above and beyond; and if I can achieve even a quarter of what she managed I would be very proud. Steelers fan Amy Usher was diagnosed with a rare form of throat cancer in 2013 and received treatment at Weston Park Hospital. Despite the hospital's best efforts and expertise, Amy sadly lost her fight with cancer in March 2015. Throughout her treatment, Amy and her older sister, Beth, became familiar faces at the Steelers games, with both players and staff at the local club showing their utmost support to the family during such a difficult time. During 2016, the cancer charity is encouraging those thinking of taking on an active challenge to join Team Weston Park and run, ride or walk to raise funds to support the work of Weston Park Hospital. Community Fundraiser, Lucy King said, -Chris is taking on an incredibly testing walk in support of the charity and we want to wish him the best of luck along the way. -Active challenges are a great way for people to raise funds in memory of those affected by cancer whilst fulfilling personal fitness goals simultaneously. To support Chris's walk visit his JustGiving page at: https://www.justgiving.com/CHR15-LEE/ To find out more about joining the cancer charity's dedicated '& Raise' clubs and for tips to get fit during 2016 visit the website at: http://wphcancercharity.org.uk/how_to_support_weston_park_hospital_cancer_charity.html