By Mal Butler
A woman who is expecting to die in just a few months will be represented by her next-door neighbour, James Williams, who is taking part in Walk the Wight – even though he has leukaemia.
American, Wendy Lohse, 42, of Bouldnor, was diagnosed with lung cancer in January, even though she has never smoked. She was given six months to live.
Wendy, who has an eight-year-old son, Kroy, explained: “The cancer has gone to my brain and is throughout my body. I’m now struggling with mobility.”
Wendy worked as a school cook at Shalfleet Primary School and has reached the final of the national ‘School Chef of the Year’ three times. She added: “The teachers, parents and children at the school have been amazing with their support and reached out to me. I’m in the process of writing a cookery book for them.
“James, and his partner, Liz, have been so supportive. Despite his illness, he is going to do the flat part of the walk, so it will be a real challenge for him, but he’s been amazing.
“He has brought people from America to come together with people here and bring awareness to it all. It’s so nice to feel the love.”
James, 68, will take part in the event on Sunday, May 14, to raise money for Mountbatten Hospice which, Wendy says, has been so supportive of her over the last few months. He has chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is the most common leukaemia in adults. He said: “Wendy is brilliant, I don’t know how she copes, she always has a lovely smile on her face. I’m doing some training but it is a struggle and hurts my muscles.
“The flat walk is eight miles, but I’m determined to complete it. My sister was in a hospice in Birmingham and I know how much good work they do.
“Liz is my fund-raiser, and would have taken part in the walk but for a knee operation! So I will be doing it on my own at my own pace so I don’t hold anyone back.
“Originally, I was just going to walk from Freshwater to The Needles, but then I thought I would attempt the flat route. It’s going to be an emotional occasion”
Featured Pic: James Williams and Wendy Lohse
Isle of Wight Observer