Redditch Women Supporting Race for Life

Arrow Valley Park was heaving with runners, joggers and walkers on Sunday.  All there to raise money for a cure for all cancers.  With over 1000 people taking part, all for the same cause it was certainly worthwhile.    

The worrying thing is that cancer is on the increase, however the silver lining is that we are now far more likely to survive cancer and it's incredible how far Cancer Research has come since the first race for life in 1994 progress so far

Funding for research is crucial and I was moved by people's stories.  Local sports personality 11 year old Libby Smith racing with SE Davis who together raised £2000, motivated by her aunty having cancer.  Cllr Brunner, walking for her Dad who recently died of Cancer.  Reading the messages on people's backs is very emotional, however, it also gives us another chance to remember the people we have lost.

For me, politics is important including where cancer is concerned.  I am very proud that the last Labour government achieved the target, that people suspected to have cancer by their GP were seen by a specialist within two weeks.  To increase cancer survival rates early diagnosis is key.  I worry about the effects upon cancer because of longer waiting times for GP's & longer waiting times to see specialists that people are now facing. 

Locally I campaigned for the Alex to have the county Radiotherapy Unit because people should not have to travel to Coventry for daily treatment, especially when they may be very ill.  I was disappointed Worcester Royal will have the facility instead of Redditch, however, to have provision closer than Coventry is a vast improvement.

Having walked Race for Life for the first time two years ago with my little brother and jogged this year, I am building up to beating my time next year.  I look forward to joining Redditch women again in the Redditch Race for Life 2014!