A HOSPITAL worker is riding 350km through India after being inspired by her "brave and dignified" sister's battle with cancer.
Jayne Fytche, of New Waltham, has already raised £4,000 for women's cancer charities with her ride across rural Rajasthan which she sets off for in November.
The 54-year-old, who has worked at Grimsby's Diana, Princess of Wales Hospital for more than 10 years, will join many women who have suffered from ovarian, cervical and breast cancer on the 350km ride.
However, it is her older sister Marilyn Scrimshaw – who has been battling breast cancer for 18 months – who is her "inspiration" while riding up to 80km a day in heat in excess of 30°.
Mrs Fytche said: "We were all sent reeling when she was diagnosed a year ago but my older sister is an absolutely incredible lady.
"She has been brave, dignified and an inspiration to me in the way she has dealt with it throughout."
Marilyn, 59, is still being treated but has had the all-clear – although will need to have regular check-ups.
Jayne added: "I felt so helpless when my sister was diagnosed because there was nothing I could do for her.
"There is some fantastic care available her in Grimsby with the Pink Rose Suite and Macmillan nurses but not everyone has access to that care.
"I felt like I had to do something and so I hope this money will help other women like my sister."
Fit and healthy Marilyn, of Wybers Wood, hopes to get back to netball next year, which she has played all her life.
"My family were there for me from the beginning to the end – especially Jayne – and I wouldn't have got through it all without them," she said.
"I also need to thank all the Macmillan nurses and people at the hospital. You never realise just how important they are and the great job that they are doing until you need them. I'm really glad that my sister can give something back to them for all they have given me."
Friends, family and colleagues from the hospital held a special Indian-themed farewell party at Mitu's restaurant in Laceby.
Guests wore pink and most of the ladies even wore traditional Indian saris and jewellery.
Jayne added: "We got the saris online and I'm taking them all with me to wear, a different one every day. I've always stayed fit and healthy but I've been cycling around Cleethorpes like a mad woman ever since I decided to go.
"I'm not at all nervous – just excited."
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To sponsor Jayne, visit www.justgiving.com and search Jayne Fytche.