A MOTHER-of-three will be guest of honour at Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life in Chester on Sunday.
Next month Caireen Candlin, from Blacon, will be celebrating five years ‘in the clear’ after being treated for cervical cancer.
The 40-year-old, who became pregnant during treatment, is hoping to raise cash to help fund research into the disease.
Caireen said: “I feel so lucky to have survived cancer and it’s such an honour to be asked to set the runners off at Race for Life.
“I’m taking part in Race for Life because I really want to give something back as it’s thanks to research I am still here today.”
Caireen was diagnosed with the disease six years ago after a smear test detected abnormal cells.
She had undergone minor surgery but further tests revealed the cancer had not gone away, and she had to have more surgery.
Caireen, who was already the mother of two boys, was with a new partner at the time and keen to have another child.
She was advised the drugs she had been treated with could make it difficult for her to conceive and her cervix might not be strong enough.
However, only two weeks later she became pregnant with twins. But as a result of the cancer treatment and a blocked tube, one of the twins died.
Caireen also needed major surgery to save both her and the surviving baby, Daisy, who has now fully recovered and recently celebrated her fourth birthday.
Caireen is originally from Aberdeen, and is hoping to take part in the Race for Life next year with her mother, who is currently fighting advanced ovarian cancer.
She said: “Success stories like mine would not be possible without the work of Cancer Research UK, which in turn relies on everyone who raises money through Race for Life.”
Laura Taylor, Race for Life event manager for Chester, added: “We are very grateful to Caireen for supporting Race for Life. Her courage in coping with cancer is inspirational.”
She said: “Looking at all the ‘back signs’ women wear at the event, declaring why they are taking part in Race for Life, is a very emotional experience. Many signs have been beautifully decorated with photographs in tribute to loved ones whose lives have been touched by the disease.
“I feel so proud and grateful to everyone who is taking part in Race for Life in Chester and to all the family, friends and colleagues who are supporting them.”
Organisers hope runners will raise £210,000.
Places are still available at Wirral Race for Life on Sunday July, 15. For more information go to www.raceforlife.org or call 0871 641 1111.