3 days ago
Holywell: Cancer survivor hosts Vegas night ahead of skydive
84-year-old Jackie Walker has promised to face her fears and tackle a skydive next month, accompanied by daughter Fiona Winston.
(Image: UGC)
After being diagnosed with breast cancer from witnessing a campaign on ITV's chat-show Lorraine, Jackie has made it her mission to raise awareness, particularly because she once believed it to be "impossible to get cancer in your 80s."
A mammogram revealed three lumps, each invisible on the skin's surface.
(Image: UGC)
With support from her friends and family, Jackie had a mastectomy at Glan Clwyd Hospital last November and has been in recovery ever since. She's now six-months clear, and wants to support others with their fight.
However, before the big jump, Jackie is raising cash to make it all worthwhile, starting with a Vegas-themed games night at the Springfield Country Club along the A55.
Jackie Walker, Holywell (Image: UGC)
Local businesses generously donated prizes for a raffle, including; Jacksons Nurseries, Lulu Mays Boutique, Iceland, Tesco, Home Bargains.
The event, held on June 13, was a huge success, with special thanks to owner Jynette Janney.
With a target of £2,000, Jackie is thrilled that the fundraiser has already surpassed the half-way point. Donations can be made here, with all proceeds going to 'Walk the Walk' for breast cancer.
Now, there's only one thing left to do. Jackie said: "The games night was absolutely brilliant. Gynette and her team were fantastic and all dressed as croupiers, so professional!
"There was a fantastic turnout, and all the guests really dressed so well. I've received so much positive support and generosity. It has been overwhelming."
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She explains the diagnosis was a shock due to being 'fit and healthy', and wants everyone to get checked despite routine mammograms being stopped at 70.
Jackie admits: "I was told if I'd have left it another year, I might not have survived. People need to get checked and watch out for the symptoms.
"As for the skydive, I am very nervous as I don't like heights! But nothing worth doing comes easy."
Thankfully, her recovery has been smooth-sailing, and will allow her complete an epic skydive on July 25 at Tikstock Airfirled in Whitchurch.
