How and why did you start running? 

I started running in 2016 after having kids and returning to a hectic job as a HR Director for a global hotel chain. I’d hired a PT to get my fitness back but I never enjoyed running, especially as I’d once run so hard on the treadmill that I was immediately sick! However, I was determined to keep going as I’d entered the 2016 Manchester 10K so I pushed on with Couch To 5K. Once I’d achieved that goal I really enjoyed running recreationally, my favourite thing was running in other countries when I was away or on holiday. I also found running really helped me through some stressful situations such as when we went into lockdown. I was already a member of an outdoors group called Solemother and one my friends from there, Clare, ran with MileShyClub in Urmston on a Monday night and convinced me to go along with her. I absolutely loved it and grew to love running even more.  

What does running mean to you? 

In June of 2021 I’d found a lump in my breast and within two weeks was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. I had to have immediate surgery followed by a twelve month treatment plan which included Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy and continued hormone treatment. As soon as my treatment was over I started my rehabilitation, I really used exercise and fitness as a way to cope with my symptoms. I was suffering with insomnia and severe side effects from the treatments so I wasn’t able to return to work, attending MileShy every week gave me something to focus on. I had to have further surgery in the September of that year which meant taking more time out for recovery, but I returned to running as soon as I was able despite still being sore from the procedures.  

I distinctly my first run back after that surgery, it was at the end of October when it was cold and dark and absolutely torrential rain. I was running with Coach Dennis and as I was still going through Chemo I felt a little unsteady on my feet, even though my pace wasn’t great I just kept going. I ran almost 6K that night instead of the usual 5K thanks to Dennis’ wonderful support.  

Soon after I went through radiotherapy which lasted until the following May and all that time I kept going to MileShy runs including the trail runs the Sale group put on. I couldn’t attend any events around this time so I began running 10Ks every week with Paul, another runner from my MileShy family. My first 10K event was the week I ended my treatment at the Manchester Canal Run. I really feel like MileShy and Solemother got me through some dark days whilst undergoing my treatment. They’ve helpedme to adapt and accept the new me.  

Proudest achievement? 

My whole running journey and the fact I managed to keep going throughout all my treatments. I really loved my trail running journey even though I found it really tough at times. I was really proud of running Worsley Woods parkrun whilst still going through Chemo and managing to finish in 28 minutes despite not feeling at all well that day.   

What part did MileShy play in your running journey? 

I found my running family at MileShyClub. The support from all the coaches and all the other runners has been outstanding and I know a lot of other people felt the same throughout lockdown and COVID restrictions. The club is an amazing group of people that are all inspiring in their own way, we have people of all ages, shapes, sizes and abilities and everybody supports each other no matter what.  

What advice would you give to new runners? 

Don’t listen to the negative voices in your head, tell yourself you CAN do it. Tell yourself anything is possible and never, ever give up. Life is for living, so live it.