Expeditionary
49 women.
56 true stories.
One same message: life after cancer is lived with strength.
In honor of all those who could not make it here.
This adventure is also for them.
EXPEDITION
SENEGAL 2026
EXPEDITION
COSTA RICA 2025
EXPEDITION
Antarctica 2024
EXPEDITION
Patagonia 2023
EXPEDITION
Jordan 2022
EXPEDITION
66 North 2021
EXPEDITION
2020 Vuelta a España
EXPEDITION
Andes 2019
EXPEDITION
Annapurna Bike 2018
EXPEDITION
Polar 2017
EXPEDITION
Transatlantic 2016
EXPEDITION
Kilimanjaro 2015
Vanesa
Senegal 2026
An elite former gymnast and two-time Spanish champion was diagnosed with breast cancer in late 2024. Facing a mastectomy was an incredibly difficult process, but she found her best psychological and motivational refuge in sports. A mother of two, she discovered the Pelayo Vida Challenge by chance at a race and is now traveling to Senegal, determined to be an example of overcoming adversity for her children and for the world.
«Sport was my daily therapy and my commitment to myself. Cancer turned my life upside down, but it gave me even more desire to move..«
45 years old · Breast cancer
Madrid / A Coruña · Store Manager at Primark
Noemi
Senegal 2026
She overcame thyroid cancer at age 8 and, in 2024, was diagnosed with an aggressive and rare form of breast cancer. Although fear paralyzed her at first, this adventurer, who has traveled to 50 countries, leaned on her support system and sports to regain control. An indoor cycling instructor, she is now making her mountain biking debut to demonstrate the power of physical activity in emotional recovery.
«I feel lucky to have touched death and not died. If my story can help someone not give up, it will have all been worth it.«
42 years old · Thyroid and breast cancer
Madrid / Seville · Employee at Heineken
Milena
Senegal 2026
Diagnosed at 35, cancer cut short her plans for motherhood and left her with chronic lymphedema in her leg. Far from giving in to her medical limitations, this midwife retreated to the mountains to regain her self-esteem. After several attempts, this year she is fulfilling her dream of participating in the Reto Pelayo Vida to show that aftereffects don't hold anyone back.
«Cancer ravaged my life, but I rebuilt myself through sports. I learned to live with the consequences and not set limits for myself.«
42 years old · Ovarian cancer
San Sebastian · Matron
Marta
Senegal 2026
Passionate about backpacking, yoga, and sports, Marta received her cancer diagnosis in 2023 while pregnant. After giving birth to her baby, she underwent a second major surgery that left her with nerve damage in her right leg. Her real challenge was regaining mobility through consistency, the gym, and swimming. Vibrant and disciplined, she travels to Senegal to indulge her two great passions, cycling and kayaking, and to connect deeply with women who have gone through similar experiences.
«My son was my savior; thanks to my pregnancy, they detected the cancer in time. Facing chemotherapy with a life growing inside me taught me to never give up.«
42 years old · Ovarian cancer
Valencia · Agrarian Relations Coordinator
Irantzu
Senegal 2026
After nearly twenty years of working in human rights in countries like Nepal and South Sudan, she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024. Following a mastectomy, she made the brave decision not to have breast reconstruction, embarking on a profound journey of personal acceptance. Passionate about handball and mountain biking, she joins the Challenge to transform her experience into social commitment and raise awareness about the body's strength after illness.
«Cancer forced me to stop in my tracks. Today I embrace my scar as a symbol of everything I've been through and the life I choose to continue enjoying.«
47 years old · Breast cancer
Pamplona / Estella-Lizarra · United Nations Volunteer
Veronica
Costa Rica 2025
«When you receive news like that, everything else loses importance. You learn to value what's truly essential: life, family, friends, and shared time. This expedition made me aware of how important it is to make the most of every moment.»
47 years old · Breast cancer
Albacete · Lieutenant Colonel of the Civil Guard
Idoia
Costa Rica 2025
«I always look for something to keep me going. Even in the most difficult times, I find reasons to smile and be grateful. This adventure taught me to transform fear and uncertainty into strength and purpose.»
56 years old · Breast cancer
Logroño · Accounting Administrator
Toñi
Costa Rica 2025
«Life always begins when you want it to. In one year, I started my life over three times, stronger and with more desire. This challenge reminded me that we set our own limits and that it's always possible to start again.»
44 years old · Breast cancer
Torrecampo, Córdoba · Investment Banking
Eduina
Costa Rica 2025
«A diagnosis can be paralyzing, especially during difficult times like the pandemic, without hugs or close support. I learned to allow myself to feel and to move forward with strength, until I could say: we did it!»
39 years old · Breast cancer
Huelva · Maritime Shipping Agent at the Nao Victoria Foundation
Mapi
Costa Rica 2025
«Cancer can be scary, especially at first and when it's rare. This expedition taught me that with determination and support, you can overcome any obstacle, and that every step counts.»
45 years old · Breast cancer
Ibi, Alicante · Clinical Research and Nutrition
Macarena
Antarctica 2024
«At first, I felt fear and frustration; sarcoma has few treatments and is not always diagnosed quickly. This expedition taught me that, even though the disease is rare, attitude and determination make a difference.»
36 years old · Soft tissue sarcoma
Seville · Marketing
Almudena
Antarctica 2024
«From helplessness, I moved to understanding that illness is part of life and a lesson in humility. Only what depends on me is under my control, and this adventure reminded me of the strength we can find within.»
44 years old · Breast cancer
Avila · Pharmaceutical
Cross
Antarctica 2024
«In the experience of cancer, you learn that even though it's a hard path, it's transformative. This expedition allowed me to value life and understand that even the negative can become a learning experience.»
53 years old · Breast cancer
Madrid · Technical Specialist at the Ombudsman's Office
Martha
Antarctica 2024
«The risk of relapse is always present, but that drives me to live life to the fullest. This challenge represents precisely that: enjoying every moment and sending a message of strength and hope to other women.»
50 years · Breast cancer
Zaragoza · Executive Assistant
Patricia
Antarctica 2024
«Facing cancer taught me to cherish every moment. This expedition has been a reminder that even when challenges are great, we can overcome them and live fully, inspiring other women to do the same.»
50 years · Breast cancer
Madrid · Technical Architect
Laura
Patagonia 2023
«Cancer took everything, but I learned that life is made of moments to be savored. It made me slow down, observe, and appreciate what we have, and understand that you don't have to wait until you're well to be happy.»
39 years old · Breast cancer
Teruel · Special education, early childhood, and primary school teacher
Anna
Patagonia 2023
«Cancer gave me a second chance and taught me to prioritize what's truly important. I learned to smile for every good moment and to value life, family, and friends, enjoying every instant with gratitude.»
45 years old · Uterine cancer
Valencia · Journalist
Kika
Patagonia 2023
«Being aware of life's finitude has taught me the importance of living in the present and leaning on the people around us. This experience reminded me that sometimes we can't do it all alone, and that shared strength is invaluable.»
46 years old · Breast cancer
Madrid · Nurse
Yolanda
Patagonia 2023
«Cancer taught me that fears and uncertainties cannot stop you. The key is to always move forward a little more, and learn to enjoy every opportunity life gives us.»
52 years old · Breast cancer
Madrid · Architect
Sonia
Patagonia 2023
«This illness taught me to truly enjoy life. Every moment is a gift, and this expedition allowed me to reaffirm that we must live fully and value the essential.»
38 years old · Breast cancer
Reinosa · Nurse
Nancy
Jordan 2022
«Cancer brings fears and uncertainties, but I've learned that nothing can stop me. Every day is an opportunity to move forward a little more, and it reminds me that there are thousands of precious lives to live and enjoy.»
49 years old · Breast cancer
Lugo · Bids and Public Procurement Technician
Esther
Jordan 2022
«The diagnosis shattered my life's plan, but it taught me to put the pieces back together. What seemed like a drama became an opportunity to appreciate, love, improve, and move forward each day with gratitude.»
46 years old · Breast cancer
Talavera de la Reina · Rehabilitation technique
Miriam
Jordan 2022
«Cancer devastates your plans and makes you vulnerable, but it's up to you how you face it. Attitude is what makes the difference and taught me to regain control of my life.»
46 years old · Breast cancer
Barcelona · City Fire Department
Pillar
Jordan 2022
«Cancer is a lesson that makes you stronger and more aware. It taught me to value every moment, to prioritize what's important, and to live with serenity and determination.»
52 years old · Breast cancer
Madrid · Executive Secretary
Olga
Jordan 2022
«The word cancer is frightening, but by embracing it, I understood that I could transform myself. I learned to live in the present and savor each moment as if it were unique.»
50 years · Breast cancer
Zaragoza · Head of Analytical Accounting Unit
Ana Alvaro
66 North 2021
«Cancer taught me that life is a gift and a huge lesson. It made me stronger, calmer, more patient, and wiser, and it taught me to value every moment with intensity and gratitude.»
49 years old · Breast cancer
Madrid · Financial Processes Manager
Ana Fresno
66 North 2021
«The diagnosis paralyzed me, but I decided to face each challenge with strength. Today, I see my scars as a reminder that I am stronger, more determined, and eager to live every second.»
38 years old · Breast cancer
Valencia · Headhunter
Lourdes
66 North 2021
«When my body said “I can't,” my mind said “you can.” I learned to trust myself and discovered that cancer can teach you to feel alive and enjoy every moment.»
55 years old · Breast cancer
Pamplona · Physical and sports trainer
Natalia
66 North 2021
«More than an illness, this experience gave me the opportunity to transform my life into the one I always dreamed of. I learned to value the essential and to live with purpose.»
47 years old · Breast cancer
Madrid · Operating Room Nurse
Susana
66 North 2021
«Cancer taught me that life is fleeting and precious. I learned to live in the present, to appreciate what I have, and to find the strength to overcome any challenge.»
46 years old · Breast cancer
Málaga · Civil servant
Mary
2020 Vuelta a España
«When I was diagnosed with cancer, I said, “Well, here we go. It's going to be me, my own personal Ironwoman, where the goal is to reach the finish line at each stage.” This experience taught me to face challenges with determination and to live each moment with intensity.»
38 years old · Breast cancer
Barakaldo, Biscay · Maître and restaurant server trainer
Nuria
2020 Vuelta a España
«The attitude with which you live life is the only thing that depends on you. Smile, walk, and don't stop. Cancer taught me that even in difficulty, you can find strength and purpose.»
45 years old · Breast cancer
Teruel · Marine Scientist
Marian
2020 Vuelta a España
«Because life goes on, not for everyone, unfortunately, but for those of us who are lucky enough, we start a new life, more intense, more valuable, more conscious. Now I know that strength comes from recognizing your own fears and moving forward.»
48 years old · Breast cancer
Elche · Architect
Lorena
2020 Vuelta a España
«After cancer, I learned to enjoy everything: the much and the little, my loved ones, every moment. I learned to differentiate the important from the accessory and to live with gratitude and fullness.»
39 years old · Breast cancer
Cartagena · Environmental Scientist
Fatima
2020 Vuelta a España
«Cancer hit my life like a hurricane. It knocked me down, took my hair, but I fought with my family and friends, and I beat it. Every scar is a reminder that life should be lived to the fullest.»
55 years · Breast and kidney cancer
Jerez de la Frontera · Art restorer
Star
Andes 2019
«The biggest challenge is to challenge yourself and go as far as your mind wants to fly. Suffering transforms into effort, and effort, into a victory that shows you how far you can go.»
39 years old · Breast cancer
Madrid · National Police
Raquel
Andes 2019
«There are days when you feel tired, alone, or even broken, but you discover you can handle it. Because you have yourself, and that's when you decide to truly fight for yourself.»
38 years old · Breast cancer
Madrid · Administrative
Rina
Andes 2019
«Surviving isn't enough. I learned that life is ephemeral and that every day is a gift. Cancer taught me to value every moment and to never take anything for granted.»
44 years old · Breast cancer
Mexico City · Surgeon and President and Founder of the Alma Foundation
Felisa
Andes 2019
«Overcoming challenges is the driving force that keeps me going, motivates me to improve every day, and proves to myself that the limits are often self-imposed.»
46 years old · Breast cancer
Almería · Building Surveyor
Begoña
Andes 2019
«Accepting what happens to you changes the way you see life. Cancer can give you a new perspective, teach you to value what's important, and help you set new goals.»
52 years old · Breast cancer
Madrid · Media Analyst at Kantar Media
Victoria
Andes 2019
«A day comes when you understand that you are not just another survivor, but a warrior who never gave up. Cancer taught me to recognize my own strength.»
48 years old · Breast cancer
Madrid · Pharmaceutical
Begoña
Annapurna Bike 2018
«More than an illness, I experienced it as an opportunity to change my life and make it the place I truly want to be. Cancer taught me to take the reins and start over.»
45 years old · Breast cancer
Madrid · Businesswoman
Lorena
Annapurna Bike 2018
«I decided to face cancer head-on, like a warrior. I've fallen many times, but I always get back up with a smile, discovering the best version of myself in the process.»
31 years old · Breast cancer
Cartagena · Nurse
Silvia
Annapurna Bike 2018
«Falling, getting up, shaking off the scrapes, smiling, and telling life: ‘Here I come again.’ Cancer taught me not to give up and to keep moving forward, no matter what.»
46 years old · Breast cancer
Madrid · Administrative
Noelia
Annapurna Bike 2018
«You are not what you achieve, you are what you overcome. Cancer taught me to value my own strength and to understand everything I am capable of facing.»
40 years old · Breast cancer
Barcelona · Insurance Agent
Cecilia
Annapurna Bike 2018
«At first it was difficult to accept it, but over time I understood that this path came full of life lessons. I learned to look forward with more strength and awareness.»
45 years old · Breast cancer
Zaragoza · Administrative
Ana Belén
Polar 2017
«I want to live it all, collect experiences that make me a better person, expand my soul and my heart. I want to feel the adrenaline of this challenge. I want to live.»
35 years old · Breast cancer
Madrid · Writer
Lorena
Polar 2017
«I decided to give myself a challenge every year, and this is the biggest one of all: to set foot in the Arctic. I'd like those going through chemo to think that the next challenge could be theirs too.»
35 years old · Hodgkin's lymphoma
Madrid · Industrial Engineer
Esther
Polar 2017
«Life gave me an opportunity the moment I started fighting cancer. It taught me that you have to fight for it every day, because there's only one.»
38 years old · Breast cancer
Valladolid · Administrative
Micaela
Polar 2017
«I've always been an optimist and have tried to find the positive in everything. Going through cancer taught me lessons... and also brought rewards: unique experiences like reaching the North Pole and a new way of seeing myself and living.»
39 years old · Breast cancer
Pontevedra · Producer
Embodiment
Polar 2017
«I want to feel the cold, the effort, the racing heart. I know I'm capable, even without superpowers. Cancer put me in my place and taught me how far I can go.»
51 years old · Breast cancer
La Coruña · Occupational therapist
Susana
Transatlantic 2016
«This challenge means life. Life to keep fighting for what you want, to reach the goal by challenging your own limits, even when you feel you can't go on.»
42 years old · Breast cancer
Madrid · Civil Guard
Marian
Transatlantic 2016
«I want to contribute my bit to other women who have gone through the same thing: a bit of excitement, hope, and the certainty that, after cancer, there is a lot of life ahead.»
44 years old · Breast cancer
Madrid · Civil Guard
Yolanda
Transatlantic 2016
«There are opportunities worth taking. I refuse to give up. I want to experience intense moments again, share them, and prove that, after all, you can come out stronger.»
50 years old · Uterine cancer
Pamplona Real Estate Agent
Carmen
Transatlantic 2016
«Every day there is something to celebrate. Every day is unique. Cancer taught me to value life and to live it with more desire than ever.»
56 years old · Breast cancer
Madrid · Doctor
Patricia
Transatlantic 2016
«Seeing other women overcome challenges like Kilimanjaro awakened something very strong in me: the certainty that I could do it too and prove that yes, it's possible.»
37 years old · Breast cancer
Barcelona · Biologist
Eva
Kilimanjaro 2015
«Medicines heal our bodies, but what about the wounds of the soul? I learned that taking care of my mind and emotions was as important as physical treatment.»
50 years · Breast cancer
Madrid · Sales Assistant
Rose
Kilimanjaro 2015
«The preparation and strength needed to climb great mountains are very similar to those required to face an illness. Cancer taught me to manage my mind as much as my body.»
55 years old · Breast cancer
Asturias · Climber
Carmen
Kilimanjaro 2015
«Sport played an essential role in my daily life. My sports experience helped me a lot to face treatment and stay strong.»
48 years · Melanoma
Valencia · Notary
Mary
Kilimanjaro 2015
«The weekend before the surgery I was in the mountains and I promised myself that I would be back there. Every day since then has been a step towards my recovery.»
40 years old · Breast cancer
Huesca · Housewife
Araceli
Kilimanjaro 2015
«Every day after the surgery, I lived it as one day closer to returning to my life. Holding onto positive thoughts became my strength to overcome the illness.»