Why?

Why indeed!

All teams entering the World’s Toughest Row embrace a charity that is close to their heart or experiences. For Renate this means rowing for the World Cancer Research Fund (NL). And for a reason as she herself was confronted with this disease. In 20213 she was diagnosed with cancer and is still aware of the fact that she has a more than average chance to have to deal with it again. But; she gained a lot of strength, willpower and positivity from this period and realised how much power a body there is in a human body. Undertaking the Atlantic Challenge Solo means for her a tribute to the human body, her own body, still going strong!

Her experience with cancer has shaped who she is today. It has taught her the true meaning of determination, resilience, and the power of never giving up. This solo journey is not just a physical challenge; it’s a celebration of life, strength, and the support we all need to move forward.

During the treatments it was obvious for her that she kept moving, eat healthy, going out for walks, cycle trips, spend as much time outdoors as was bearable in the circumstances. It goes without saying the charities that she wants to support focus on exactly those aspects. The quality of life does improve when you take care of yourself in the best possible way. Not for everybody this is within reach, therefore the World Cancer Research Fund is one of the charities. This Fund promotes research into the relationship lifestyle-sports-nutrition and reducing the risk of developing cancer. And for the patients, to help them have the best possible quality of life.

Imagine: one in two to three people will be confronted with cancer in their lives. That is too much! More research is needed to reduce the chances to develop cancer. Apart from this, research and education about the relationship between nutrition, sports and spending time outdoors is much needed, all for the improvement of the quality of life.

Renate does what she loves best to promote the good work of this Fund: rowing!

Talks with another charity are still ongoing, updates will follow.