Fundraiser Alison Rance has gone to great lengths to boost the coffers of the two hospitals which helped to save her life.

The 28-year-old survived three heart attacks in 36 hours last September after being struck down by a rare tumour.

Now Alison, of Warren Lane, Eldwick, Bingley, is back to full fitness and proved it this week by completing the last leg of a 30-mile sponsored swim.

Over the last five months she has clocked up 2,400 lengths - or 48,000 metres - to represent the journey from Airedale Hospital, Eastburn, near Keighley, to St James's Hospital, Leeds.

Alison said: "The swim was a big challenge. As well as being a good way to raise money it has helped me regain my fitness.

"I wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for the excellent treatment and support I received. This is just a small thank you."

The tumour on Alison's adrenal gland - a condition known as pheocromacytoma - caused her heart, kidneys and liver to fail. Doctors at Airedale Intensive Care Unit revived her three times before she was transferred to St James's for specialist treatment.

The swim is one of two sponsored events being staged by Alison, her family and friends, to raise £2,500 for the two hospitals. Proceeds will be split between the Intensive Care Unit at Airedale and the Renal Unit at St James's - which is hoping to spend its money on an ice-making machine. Alison explained: "When I came off the ventilator I was only allowed to drink a small amount of liquid each day. Ice cubes were refreshing.''

The second leg of the sponsored challenge will be a walk from Airedale to St James's on Saturday, May 27.

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