A mum of three from Cadishead will be joining in an emotional 10k walk next month to raise money for The Christie.

Janet Gleave, 47, is taking part in the Walk of Hope on Saturday 11th September at Cheshire's Tatton Park. The annual Christie event sees hundreds of families and friends gather in support of loved ones currently battling cancer, in celebration of those who have beaten the disease and in memory of those who have sadly lost the fight.

Janet decided to sign up for the event after losing her brother and sister within just three months of each other to cancer.

Her sister Lynda Franks died in October 2009 aged just 49 after battling breast cancer, leaving behind her husband and three children. Their brother Steven Toft then died in January 2010 aged 55 after battling pancreatic cancer, leaving behind wife Karen and twin daughters.

Janet said; "It's been an extremely difficult year and we all miss Lynda and Steven immensely. We're a really close family and it just doesn't feel right not having them around. It's so upsetting that they both lost their fight when they had so much to live for.

"Steven's cancer spread extremely quickly and he died before he could start treatment, but Lynda underwent treatment at The Christie and she was so well looked after. That's why I wanted to do this Walk of Hope - as well as doing something in memory of Lynda and Steven, I want to raise money for The Christie to say thank you."

Midway through the walk there is a moment for reflection, as loved ones get to throw a pebble emblazoned with the name of the person they are taking part in honour of into the mere at Tatton. The event then culminates with a moving and uplifting candlelit vigil held by The Christie's chaplain.

Janet added; "I know I'll be in bits at times during the walk, especially when we throw the pebble into the mere but I know Lynda and Steven will be there with me in spirit. I think about them everyday and wish they were still here. I'm so lucky though that I've got such a fantastic husband and three kids who keep me busy to say the least!"

Sporting events officer at the Christie charity, Marco Giannini, said; "To lose anyone is difficult but to lose two members of your family so close together is just devastating and my sincere condolences go to Janet and her family for all they've been through.

"Our Walk of Hope provides the perfect opportunity for people to come together and support each other, under one common cause so I hope it provides some comfort for Janet.

"Unlike many of our other events like bike rides and marathons, this is a walk where you don't need to be super fit and the whole family can get involved. It's always such a stunning, moving, and inspirational event and money raised will make such a huge difference.

"If anyone would like to take part, contact me on 0161 446 3400 or via email events@christies.org"

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