Kristina Trewick will take the 100ft plunge to raise money for Cancer Research UK in a sponsored abseil off the iconic landmark.

The 36-year-old, of Marine Terrace, was diagnosed with an early form of breast cancer in November and made a New Year's resolution to raise money for the charity.

"I noticed a swelling in my breast so I went to the GP to have it checked out," she said.

"Although she couldn't find a lump, she referred me for tests at Wansbeck Hospital, just to be sure."

Following a suspicious mammogram and then an ultrasound scan, Kristina was taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle for a biopsy, which revealed that the mother-of-one had an early form of breast cancer.

Kristina, an advisor for Blyth Valley Action Team for Jobs, said: "It felt completely surreal when I heard the diagnosis of cancer.

"I wasn't prepared for the news even though the consultant had told me my initial test results looked suspicious.

"I started panicking about my son and whether I'd live to see him grow up."

On December 15 Kristina had surgery and on December 23 she received the news that the cancer had not spread.

"It was the best Christmas present I've ever had," she said.


She is now waiting for the results of further tests to find out if she needs radiotherapy treatment.

"I've always supported research into cancer because the disease has had a big impact on my husband's family.

"But now the disease has affected me personally, I feel driven to give something back.

"I didn't think it could happen to me but it has."

During the abseil Kristina will be cheered on by her husband Colin, her nine-year-old son Jack, and her friends.

The abseil is open to anyone over 16 and takes place on Sunday, January 29.

For more information contact (0191) 281 8288 or email jill.campbell@cancer.org.uk