Elaine Ryrie, a 45-year-old mother from Aberdeenshire, has taken up mountain climbing after overcoming ovarian cancer. Diagnosed at age 39, she endured a full hysterectomy and chemotherapy, but now five years in remission, she is tackling Scotland's Munros and camping in the wilderness.
Diagnosis Amidst the Pandemic
Elaine's cancer journey began in August 2020 after several bouts of pancreatitis. A CT scan revealed a mass on her ovary, and doctors were "highly suspicious of this being an ovarian cancer." However, a gynaecologist initially suggested it was likely a cyst, advising a six-month wait. On her mother's urging, Elaine pushed for further tests. In November 2020, blood tests indicated cancer, and she was referred for a hysterectomy.
"Of course, this was Covid, so everything took a little bit longer than it should," Elaine told PA Real Life. She attended appointments alone due to pandemic restrictions. The surgeon was "very direct," stating it was almost definitely cancerous and needed immediate removal.
The Longest Six Weeks
Delays meant Elaine waited six weeks over Christmas for her surgery. "It was absolutely horrific," she said. On Christmas Day, she cried at her dressing table, thinking it would be her last. She took her Labrador, Bailey, into the hills near her remote village and sat cuddling him for hours. "I just sat there and looked out to the hills, wishing for this day to be over," she recalled.
On January 13, 2021, she underwent a full hysterectomy. Initially, doctors said it was a cyst, but two weeks later, a biopsy revealed Stage 1C3 ovarian cancer — localised but aggressive. She began six cycles of chemotherapy, losing her hair and suffering side effects. On May 27, 2021, she was told she was in remission.
Finding Solace in the Hills
Remembering the comfort she found on that Christmas Day, Elaine decided to return to hiking and hillwalking. Living in rural Aberdeenshire, she has access to "some of the most remote and beautiful places on this earth." However, she struggled with finding suitable clothing after gaining weight during treatment, wearing a size 22. "Absolutely nothing fitted me for the outdoors," she said, and outdoor shops lacked plus-size womenswear.
Through the group Every Body Outdoors, she discovered Vampire Outdoors, a company specialising in plus-size outdoor gear. Owner Rebecca Dawson provided custom fitting advice, which Elaine described as "life-changing." "All of a sudden the barrier to the outdoors was lifted," Elaine said. "She goes above and beyond at making sure a product will fit... Rebecca always makes you feel heard and not judged."
Living Life to the Fullest
Now in remission for five years, Elaine is considered cured. She is tackling Munros and planning camping trips with her family. "It's a really good feeling, really nice feeling," she said. Her message to others is to push for answers and not let barriers stop them from enjoying the outdoors.
