Jill Heuving Burpengary, Queensland Australia Amazon Heart Thunder Australia 2009 New Rider Click Here to Donate Now!

Hello friends,

I was so excited to hear I was to be included in the Amazon Thunder Australia ride for 2009. I was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 1995 - (WOW - 13 years ago) - at age 46 and I'm still here to tell the story. This cancer was a fast growing one and deep down near the chest wall, 15 lymph nodes were removed and all were cancerous. Just like some of the other "girls" I underwent a radical mastecomy, radiation and was supposed to have 6 chemotherapy treatments over a period of 4 months. This would give me a 51% chance of survival beyond 5 years. However chemo' and I did not agree - and after 2 sessions and feeling worse than I could ever imagine, I made the decision to stop the chemo', no matter what the outcome. The oncologist was not pleased, and commented that I had written my own death sentence. My G.P. however was supportive, and said taking a pro-active roll in my treatment would be a positive step. With his help I went on a very healthy diet of juices, vitamins, and natural organic food. And here I am... yes, my life changed - for the better. I am healthier, happier and very much alive and well.

These 12 years have been exciting (new friends, new job opportunities, a move to a great area in Queensland), sad (losing my husband of 34 years), fun (finding a new sport which I love - Dragon Boat Racing), and rewarding (watching my children grow into wonderful, caring adults with families of their own).  

I first rode a motorbike at 17 years of age, and loved the thrill and feeling of freedom then, and still do, 'though I have not ridden for quite a while.

Every opportunity that comes my way is a blessing, and I believe this Amazon Thunder journey will be one of those special times in my life. I can't wait to meet the other "girls" that will join me in this adventure of a lifetime.

This journey is for a purpose - to raise awareness of how many women breast cancer affects, and to raise funds for the ongoing research, treatment and assistance for those newly diagnosed with this disease.

For this cause I hope to raise $5000. Will you please help me and my fellow riders.

Click Here to Donate Now!