More than 60 people, including a woman from Salford, were special guests at an emotional event last week, held in celebration of the dedicated supporters who have helped raise thousands of pounds for The Christie by taking part in a running event.

A record 5,000 people have run for The Christie throughout the past 12 months in events such as the London Marathon, Great Manchester Run and New York Marathon, collectively covering a distance of over 35,000 miles - the equivalent of running around the world one and a half times. Money is still coming in but so far over £500,000 has been raised for the Christie charity.

36 year old Kerry Adderton from Salford took part in this year's Great Manchester Run as a way of thanking The Christie for the care she received after being diagnosed with breast cancer last year.

The receptionist was presented with her medal at the 'thank you' event by guest of honour, Olympic gold medallist, Darren Campbell. Celebrities Gemma Atkinson, Liam Richards and Becky Want, who have all ran for The Christie this year, also attended.

Kerry said; "After a successful operation to remove the tumour, I went on to have chemotherapy and radiotherapy. I'm now on the mend and feeling good!

"Staff at The Christie were fantastic with me throughout my treatment - always there to keep me positive when I was feeling low; always ready to answer any questions I had. Raising money in the Great Manchester Run was my little way of giving something back.

"Having cancer has definitely changed my outlook on life. I don't let little things get me down anymore and I live for today."

Sporting events officer at the Christie charity Emma Tilley, said; "Our 'Runner's Reception' is always such a moving, inspiring and uplifting event and we were thrilled to have Darren Campbell attend as our special guest. We were touched when he called all our runners 'heroes,' which is exactly what they are to us too.

"To be diagnosed with cancer at such a young age must have been extremely distressing for Kerry, so I'm over the moon she's back on her feet and so grateful for her support.

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