Salford breast cancer survivor, Laura Derbyshire, ran the Manchester half-marathon yesterday to raise money for specialist therapy to help others currently undergoing treatment for the disease.
The mum-of-one took on the half marathon challenge for National Breast Cancer Month despite only starting to run whilst undergoing radiotherapy.
Laura, 41, ran the half marathon in hopes to raise money for Salford Royal Hospital to help gather funds for another DOT machine costing £3,225, and so far has beaten that target with a total of £3,715.
It was during lockdown 2020 when Laura discovered three lumps on her breast and in July that year she began her cancer journey at Salford Royal. Within 25 days of her diagnosis she started her 12 sessions of chemotherapy.
During the lockdown period limited visitors were not allowed inside the hospital so Laura had to face this battle alone with the occasional doorstep visits and gifts. Laura is now in remission but continues to feel the long term effects.
DOT – Deep Oscillation Therapy – improves the look and feel of scars, and there are also proven physiological effects including pain reduction. Laura was fortunate enough to receive DOT treatment and wants others to benefit from it.
She said: “For the past few years I have felt not physically strong and not physically able to do anything like the marathon… and ultimately, I just wanted to do it to raise money for a wonderful charity.”
She is keen to encourage everyone to check themselves and look out for the signs and symptoms of breast cancer.
Laura added: “Don’t give up, don’t think it defines you, don’t think that your life is over.”
You can still donate to Laura’s cause via her Just Giving Page https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ljdsboobies
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