A HARDY Stratford woman is preparing to jump in the saddle, take the plunge, and pull on her running shoes – all for a good cause.
Jane Kocan-Payne, who works in IT for Warwick District Council is aiming to complete the London Classics and join a small and exclusive band of people who have completed the Ride London 100 mile bike ride, the Swim Serpentine two mile swim in Hyde Park and the London Marathon.
There is no time limit for when all three events should be completed, but Jane is looking to do them all in just a year. Only around 1,500 people have completed the challenge and only a handful as quickly as Jane is planning.
And what makes the challenge even more impressive is the 37-year-old was previously diagnosed with CFS/ME (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome). The medical condition is characterised by a range of symptoms, the most common of which is extreme fatigue.
Thought to have been brought on by a viral infection even the simplest of tasks such as making a cup of tea or getting dressed became a physical and mental challenge for her.
After numerous hospital tests and visits resulting in a secondary diagnosis of an autoimmune disease, Jane did her research and then implemented a few changes to her diet, added a few supplements and started some light exercise.
Over the past year she has battled her way back to basic fitness and to date has completed over 500 miles on her bike as part of the training for the first event, Ride London, on Sunday (August 4).
As part of her drive to get back to the fitness level she was before her diagnosis three years ago, she decided to make a bid for the London Classics and raise money for a good cause while doing so.
Five years ago, she and husband Stuart sadly lost two children to miscarriage following IVF treatment, so Jane will be taking on the London Classics to raise money for Tommy’s which funds research into stillbirth, premature birth and miscarriage, as well as providing vital information for parents-to-be.
Jane has previously completed three marathons and a number of half marathons.
Visit londonclassicstommys.wordpress.com to read Jane’s blog, and search Jane Kocan-Payne to donate on her Virgin Money Giving page.
