A woman diagnosed with breast cancer a decade ago is now fighting fit and getting set to take on the gruelling “Night Runner” challenge in aid of Watford’s Peace Hospice Care.

Following her diagnosis, Michelle Gascoine, underwent 35 sessions of radiotherapy, six harrowing hospital procedures, a course of hormone injections and a series of debilitating chemotherapy treatments before being given the all clear.

Michelle from Watford is joining a team of friends from British Military Fitness to take part in theNight Runner on Saturday, March 21.

The fun challenge is all part of Michelle’s journey marking her complete recovery.

It is also her chance to bury the bad years and celebrate her half century in October.

She said: “I was diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2003. I had discovered a lump, was losing weight and bruising easily.”

Treatments, surgery and chemo followed. But the side effects left Michelle exhausted and hospitalised.

She explained: “My nervous system began to rebel against the chemo treatments resulting in extended hospital stays and a few nasty infections.

“But I was able to celebrate my 40th birthday in 2005, and none of us thought it would happen. Now this year I get to celebrate my 50th .”

Battling medically, emotionally, mentally and physically has not been easy for Michelle but she is determined to contribute to the Night Runner event to help celebrate her well-being.

“Taking part in the Night Runner with some wonderful people from BMF is a further step in what has been a long recovery period and at the same time it is marking my recovery and raising money for such a wonderful cause,” said Michelle.

Peter Watson, Events & Community Fundraising Manager for Peace Hospice Care said: “There’s plenty of places left for the Night Runner event so we’re really hoping that more people will sign up.

“It’s going to be a great event with 17 obstacles packed into a two mile course. You don’t have to be super fit, just up for a bit of an adventure and a good laugh, there’s also a pub nearby so you can have a well-deserved drink when you’ve completed the course.”

If you would like to take part in the Night Runner call 01923 335370 or email events@peacehospicecare.org.uk or visit www.peacehospicecare.org.uk/events.

If you cannot take part in the event and wish to sponsor Michelle visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/BMFHerts