Last call for Race for Life
PUBLISHED: 16:05 29 April 2010 | UPDATED: 10:05 02 July 2010
Kate Scotter
Doreen Goward, left, with her friend Carol Necchi, getting ready for the Race 4 Life
A woman who has multiple sclerosis is hoping to be cheered on by three generations of her family as she takes part in the Race for Life this weekend.
Doreen Goward has suffered from MS for more than 20 years but has refused to let the condition beat her - and this May Bank holiday will once again prove she will not be defeated when she takes part in the women-only 5k run in aid of Cancer Research UK.
The 52-year-old mum-of-two will be one of hundreds taking part in the annual event at Norwich Showground. She will take part with her friend Carol Necchi.
It is hoped she will be supported by her 77-year-old mum Margaret Davies, who has battled cancer for more than three years, her daughter and son Andrew and Amanda and her granddaughter Megan.
Mrs Goward, from Catton Chase, Old Catton, who is married to motor technician Ralph, said: "My mum has had cancer for a number of years now and she has had a terrible time so I'm doing it for her. A lot of people I know have lost someone to cancer so I wanted to give it a go.
"I really hope I can do it. With multiple sclerosis being so unpredictable, I don't know how I'm going to be on the day."
There are Race for Life events on both Saturday and Sunday this weekend and there are still some places available. Entries close at midnight tomorrow (Thursday) and it is hoped the Norwich event will raise more than £809,000.
Mrs Goward was first diagnosed with MS, a disabling neurological condition, in 1989 and the condition leaves her very tired and also affects her memory.
She plans to start off walking but then her friend Carol will push her in her wheelchair if she gets too tired.
Mrs Goward, who has already raised more than £200, added: "I think it will be very tiring for me and the next day I will be very tired but it's nice to think I can do something to help.
"Everybody has been touched by cancer and any money I can raise for the charity is wonderful."
Women in Norfolk can enter Cancer Research UK's Race for Life at www.raceforlife.org or by calling 0871 641 1111.
Are you overcoming the odds for charity? Call reporter Kate Scotter on 01603 772326 or email kate.scotter@archant.co.uk
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