Jane Tomlinson was diagnosed with breast cancer 12 years ago

Jane Tomlinson, a 38-year-old mother of three from Rothwell, Leeds, will face two painful hospital sessions during the three-week ride.

Without the treatment during the tandem bike ride with her brother Luke Goward her health will seriously decline.

She said: "I still feel optimistic and hopeful that I can manage the challenge a long as I don't have any blips in my health.

Long distance

"It's going to be hardest travelling to Leeds and back as I get very tired and disorientated when travelling a long distance.

"We always knew that it was a possibility that I would have to have the chemotherapy and I would prefer to have the treatment than face the consequences after."

The chemotherapy sessions will be held in Leeds and the first session will take place after the first leg to Perth.

Mrs Tomlinson and her brother will start the challenge on 21 March.

Award winner

Last year Mrs Tomlinson raised �118,000.

She has already raised �29,000 in 2003 which will be split between Cancer Research UK, Sport Aided Research for Kids, Leeds Hospital Trust paediatric services and local care centre Hannah House.

Mrs Tomlinson took part in the London Marathon, the Triathlon and the Great North Run in 2002.

Her challenges have won her a number of high profile awards, including The Sunday Times sportswoman of the year and BBC sports personality of the year's Helen Rollason award.