Judith is fighting back after cancer treatment

Feb 27 2008 by Carrie Catterall, Heswall News

BEING touched by cancer is a negative experience – but after fighting the illness Judith Hadfield admits she has a more positive outlook.

The 37-year-old from Rock Farm Drive, Little Neston, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2001 after she found a lump in her right breast.

In January 2001 Judith began four months of chemotherapy treatment and in June 2001 she underwent a mastectomy to have her right breast removed – this was followed by six weeks of radiotherapy.

Judith, an administrator for Laird Assessors in Heswall, now has annual check-ups and two-yearly mammograms.

She said: “Without Cancer Research I would not be here today.

“I decided I wanted to give something back and in 2003 I ran my first Race for Life with my best friend Mona Simpson – I have run every year since.

“These races provide an opportunity to do an awful lot of good for an awful lot of people.

“When you register you get a back sign which says why you are racing – this is a very humbling experience.

“There is a real camaraderie at the event itself and it is very positive and uplifting as everyone takes part for one common cause.”

Last year Judith raised £1,600 for Cancer Research UK with her work colleagues, she hopes to raise even more this year.

She added: “If you get cancer, you still have to get on with your life.

“Being ill has given me a new perspective and now I see the good in every day.”

To register for Race for Life, visit www.raceforlife.org/northwest or call the hotline 0871 641 2276.