Leicestershire women are all set to take part in an open-air race in a bid to raise funds for a cancer charity.
After being postponed because of bad weather, female runners of all ages and abilities will be taking part in the 5km or 10km course at Western Park, which has been rescheduled to this Saturday and Sunday.
Cancer survivor Tasmin Furner, who took part in the 5km race last year while being under treatment for advanced breast cancer is planning to join other women and run longer, going for the 10km mark. The occasion will also serve to celebrate her 40th birthday.
Tasmin, a consultant from Ashby de La Zouch, said: “I was so determined to try and get through the treatment as quickly as possible, I found I loved being outside so the walking turned into jogging and it became my thing.
“Then when some of my work colleagues and friends said they wanted to do Race for Life for me I said I would join them. Exercise really helped me get through the treatment both physically and emotionally and the Race gave me a focus and something to aim for.
“Race day was very emotional but it’s great to see so many women coming together for the same reason. It’s not about the time you do it in, it’s about realising that every contribution really does make a difference.”
Last year Cancer Research UK’s initiative raised £342,000 and now the target is bigger. They aim to help thousands who are diagnosed with the disease each year. All the money raised will be used for vital research on 200 types of cancer. There are 22,900 people across the East Midlands alone who suffer from disease.
Calling on women to get involved, Cancer Research UK’s East Midlands events manager, Victoria Meikle said: “It’s all of us versus cancer and we need you to join the fight as soon as possible.
“We know many women want to take part in Race for Life but are worried they won’t be able to complete the course. We want to reassure them that Race for Life is not about being fast or fit. Instead, it’s a celebration of sisterhood and hope.”
To sign up for Leicester’s Race for Life 2012 visit raceforlife.org or call 0871 641 1111.
