A FAMILY is gearing up for an ‘ultra challenge’ walk in memory of a much-loved wife, grandmother and friend.

Jane Farrell, from Ogwell, died in 2024 of pulmonary fibrosis, a terminal lung disease which affects 150,000 in the UK and has an average survival rate of three to five years.

There is currently no cure for the disease but treatments can slow the rate of deterioration and manage symptoms.

Jane was diagnosed in early 2023 and, despite the condition, she responded with determination, optimism and a desire to help others.

Husband Peter said: ‘Following her diagnosis, she did all she could to foster awareness about the disease despite her deteriorating health.

‘She volunteered for drug trials, and started a support group for local patients with help from Torbay Hospital.

‘It is a more common and more deadly disease than many cancers but most people have never heard of it.’

Jane became an active supporter of Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis (APF) and continued tirelessly until her death in late 2024.

Now Peter continues to run the group, which provides support, information, and companionship to families facing the devastating illness.

On July 18, Peter will join members of his family and loved ones of other local patients to walk 25 kilometres on the Gower where he and Jane first met more than 50 years ago.

Their aim is not only to raise funds, but also to increase awareness of Pulmonary Fibrosis and the importance of early diagnosis.

Money raised will support costs of the bi-monthly meetings of the local Torbay Support Group and also the charity APF which supports research, awareness campaigns, patient services, and national advocacy.

To sponsor the walk, learn more, or support the local Torbay group, contact Peter at [email protected] or visit the team’s fundraising page at https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/janes-team-for-apf

More information at www.actionpf.org