Brave SSE Ambassador Becky James has revealed a cancer scare and subsequent knee injury has ruled her out of the Commonwealth Games.
The 22-year-old has been forced to withdraw from the Welsh team after undergoing surgery following abnormal smear test results.
The operation meant an enforced two week rest period for the cyclist which then resulted in her picking up a knee injury in her battle to get back to fitness.
SSE is a proud sponsor of Becky, Team Wales and the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.
Becky said: “Unfortunately I will be withdrawing from the Team Wales cycling squad for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games. The reason for this is a knee injury sustained following a period of medical rest.
“In May, I received abnormal results from a routine smear test, and following the biopsy results I underwent minor surgery which I’m pleased to say was successful.
“The surgery, however, meant two weeks away from my usual training regime. Following the rest, in an effort to make up for lost time, I aggravated a knee injury that will rule me out of the Games.
“I’m terribly disappointed I won’t be competing in Glasgow, I still hope to be in Glasgow cheering the team on, and wish the entire team the best of luck.”
Wendy Barbour, Director of Commonwealth Games and Sponsorship at SSE, said: “We are devastated for Becky as we know how hard she’s worked to make the Commonwealth Games. Her health is the most important thing and we are delighted this was picked up early and she’s had the treatment she needs to get back on the road to full fitness.
“She was extremely brave to continue to battle to achieve her dreams of glory in Glasgow. That she picked up an injury in pursuit of this demonstrates just how determined she was to represent Team Wales.
“She is a true role model for other young athletes. Becky is still very much part of the SSE family and we’re proud she’ll continue to represent SSE at the Games.”