Rita's Race for Life

I am doing a Race for Life with my daughter on 26/6/22 at Tatton Park. I used to participate in these regularly until I got Stage 2 breast cancer in 2019. My sister had had treatment a few years before. I have not had the stamina to take part until now so this year I am going to try, at least. Originally I raced for the fair few close friends and family members I had lost to the disease but this changed over the years to include those who are in remission or living with cancer now and I see that more and more lately. God bless fabulous scientists and their brains. I had started following @bowelbabe on Instagram after Rachel Bland died. I had been listening to You Me and the Big C on Radio 4. Obviously, Deborah’s profile has increased massively recently, though I suspect it's of little comfort to a young woman who will never see her children grow up. So, this year I am racing (walking) for both. I was diagnosed Stage 2 because, although the cancer was extremely small and close to the surface it had already moved to my lymph nodes. A factor from my sister's cancer as well. The only symptoms I had were a slight aching in my left biceps and constantly sleeping. I am part of a research trial called POSNOC where they are looking at treatment protocols. As a result I was lucky enough not to have chemotherapy though I do need regular bone infusions as the tumour is slow growing but does have a tendency to come back in the bones. I don't let my mind think of that. Research and education are definitely the key to fighting this horrible disease, that robs so many of their love ones. If anyone wants to and no pressure whatsoever, they can donate here. 1 in 2 of us will have cancer in our lifetime. Years ago, when I was losing my friends and relatives it was 1 in 10.