An Oldham student has urged people to back life-saving research and sign up for Race for Life.
Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life is an inspiring series of events, including 3k, 5k, and 10k races, which raise millions of pounds every year to help beat cancer by funding crucial research.
Former pupil of The Blue Coat School, on Egerton Street in Oldham, Charlotte Mellor is now embarking on a PhD after attaining a degree in medical biochemistry at the University of Manchester.
Her course is being funded by the charity as she looks at how cells function, and why some die and others do not - with the hope that it could lead to better informed choices on therapies for patients in the future.
The 26-year-old said: "I’ve always been inquisitive and problem-solving appeals to me, so looking at how cells work and why they don’t all perform in the same way is fascinating.
“I’d like to thank everyone across Oldham and Greater Manchester who supports Race for Life. The funds raised already help people living with cancer every single day and will make a difference to prevent, diagnose and treat more than 200 types of cancer for patients in generations to come."
She added: “Research into cancer is very expensive and all of it is funded purely by donations to Cancer Research UK.”
Charlotte's granddad had cancer when she was a youngster and her uncle has recently undergone treatment for prostate cancer.
Family friends have also faced cancer diagnoses and have approached Charlotte asking for her to explain some of the terminology around their treatment.
Every year around 44,100 people are diagnosed with cancer in the North West of England, while just last year, Cancer Research UK spent around £26 million on research in the North West aimed at developing new and kinder ways to tackle cancer.
Race for Life events will be held at Heaton Park, Tatton Park and Stockport, residents wishing to enter should visit the charity's website.
Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson for the North West, Jane Bullock, said: “We are grateful to Charlotte for her support.
"No matter how cancer affects us, life is worth racing for. Sadly nearly 1 in 2 of us will get cancer in our lifetime.
"Race for Life has the power not only to transform lives, but to save them. We’re proud that Race for Life has already helped double survival rates in the UK."
She continued: “We’d love for as many people as possible in Greater Manchester and beyond to join us at Race for Life.
"It’s a fun and achievable challenge for everyone and we mean everyone. Walk, jog, run or take on the course however it suits best. It’s a chance to feel the power of moving together with fellow Race for Lifers and have fun with it.
“Whether people are living with cancer, taking part in honour of or in memory of a loved one with cancer, in it for the medals or just for the fun of fundraising, there is a place for everyone.”
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