A BRADSHAW woman who has been diagnosed with cancer seven times in seven years is leading a fundraising trek up Britain’s three highest mountains.

Daniella Chesney is leading a team of friends on the Three Peaks Challenge, which involves walking to the summit of Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Mount Snowdon in under 24 hours.

Mrs Chesney was first told she had bowel cancer in 2010 and has since seen forms of the disease return in her lung, breasts, blood and skin.

Last year she was informed she had metastasised brain cancer and is still undergoing treatment. But she refuses to let the disease beat her — and is now looking to raise £10,000 for the Christie Hospital by climbing a total 11,178 feet with the aid of her chums.

She will undertake the 460-mile trip with her family and close friends, including former Bolton Wanderers defender Jimmy Phillips — who has volunteered to drive the group between the stages.

She said: “I decided to take on the Three Peaks challenge for many reasons — firstly to inspire other cancer sufferers that you can embrace life and be well with cancer. Secondly, I wanted to repay Christie’s for the amazing care and support that I have received.

“Don't be fooled by how well I may look — I struggle to co-ordinate my limbs, I

have a lingering cough from radiation treatment and I tire easily.

“But I am determined to successfully achieve this challenge in 24 hours, to prove that cancer hasn't beaten me and I am still strong and fit even after all my surgeries and treatment.

“I want every cancer sufferer to face this disease with a brave face and not let

it take everything you love in life.

“It's easy to say be positive but you really can fight this disease, don't let it define you, I'm living proof that you can survive.”

Mr Phillips, who is now head of the academy at Wanderers, helped the group warm up in June by doing the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge.

“I was struggling to get out of bed the next morning, and Daniella had gone twice round Jumbles Reservoir,” he said. “That’s what kind of zest for life she has got.

“My wife will be part of the group going up and down the mountains but I’m just doing the driving this time.

“It is truly inspiring to see what an example she is to people battling cancer.”

The group will begin their ascent of Ben Nevis, in Scotland, at 5pm on Saturday before travelling overnight to Scafell Pike in Cumbria for around 4am. They hope to reach Snowdonia in North Wales late-morning for the final push.

Bolton-based Ciceley Commercial Vehicles have also helped the cause by donating the use of one of their people carriers to make the long trip possible.

“It’s an absolute pleasure to assist in such a worthy journey,” said sales executive Mike Holmes. “We wish Jimmy and the team a lot of good luck.”

Mrs Chesney has set up a Just Giving page at justgiving.com/fundraising/daniella-chesney