People across Watford united against cancer to raise £180,000 by taking part in Race for Life.
More than 2,000 people embraced the sunshine and tropical temperatures and formed a parade of pink throughout Cassiobury Park, on Saturday, June 10.
Money raised at Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life enables scientists to find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer - helping to save more lives.
Among those taking part in the 3k, 5k, 10k and Pretty Muddy obstacle races were the ‘Remembering Rachel’ team, headed up by Beth Appleby.
Beth, who works at Watford General Hospital, said: “We’re here today to remember our colleague, Rachel who was diagnosed with breast cancer on New Year’s Eve.
“We had planned to do Race for Life in support of her but sadly her cancer was very aggressive and she passed away last month aged just 33.
“It was so quick and so today we’ve come together to do it to remember her.
“Our team has raised £6,400 for Race for Life and we hope to come and do it again in her memory.”
According to Cancer Research UK, every year around 53,500 people are diagnosed with cancer in the South East and one in two people in the UK born after 1960 will get cancer in their lifetime.
Elisa Mitchell, Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson in Hertfordshire, said: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part in Race for Life Watford.
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“Life-saving research is being funded right now thanks to our supporters who fundraise.
“The atmosphere at Race for Life Watford was hugely moving - full of emotion, courage, tears and laughter as people celebrated the lives of those dear to them who have survived cancer and remembered loved ones lost to the disease.
“Now we’re asking everyone who took part to return the money they’re raised as soon as possible.
“Funds raised - whether it’s £10 or £100 - will help scientists find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, helping save more lives.”
This is the 30th year of Race for Life and participants received an exclusive medal to mark the milestone.
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