Mum and daughter reveal cancer battle ahead of Race for Life
Lorraine Taylor, 64, and her daughter Michelle Harris, 38, will take part in the fundraising event for cancer research in Glasgow Green on May 18.
Michelle, a teacher of complex needs, was diagnosed with skin cancer in November 2019.
Read more: Race for Life to return to Glasgow - what you need to know
Michelle said: "Cancer turns lives upside down, steals precious moments and affects far too many of us.
"For me, it's personal as both my mum and I have faced it.
"Mum and I have always been close.
"We talk almost every day and plan weekends away together.
"Mum was an amazing support for me when I was diagnosed and when mum faced cancer, I was right there for her.
"Taking part in Race for Life is not just about the miles.
"It's about giving back to a cause that has given our family and so many others hope.
"Research means more people are getting through cancer.
"We're proud to support that, to cross the finish line in honour of those going through cancer right now and also in memory of some friends and colleagues we have sadly lost to cancer."
Michelle had day surgery on November 30, 2019, to remove the mole as well as lymph nodes from under her arms.
She recovered well and no further treatment is now needed, though she still has regular check-ups on other areas of her body where there are moles.
Lorraine was diagnosed with cancer just 16 months after Michelle's diagnosis.
She had no symptoms when she attended a routine breast screening appointment in March 2021 and was diagnosed with breast cancer.
Lorraine said: "I remember coming out of the appointment and feeling shell-shocked as I called my daughter Michelle to give her the news.
"It was stressful at the time but in a way, I actually felt lucky as screening meant they had caught the cancer early.
"Michelle was a great support to me."
Lorraine was scheduled for surgery in April 2021 but it was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
She eventually had the surgery that June followed by eight sessions of radiotherapy at the Lanarkshire Beatson in Airdrie.
After overcoming their cancer ordeal, the pair are determined to complete the 10k and are encouraging others to join them.
They will be joined by Michelle's daughter Abby Harris, 17, and her pet dog Maze.
Michelle and Lorraine on a family holiday (Image: Supplied)
Read more: Cambuslang woman to trek Himalayas for charity
Abby said: 'My mum and my gran are both amazing, strong women and I'll be proud to be by their side at Race for Life Glasgow.'
Lisa Adams, Cancer Research UK's spokeswoman in Scotland, said: "We are grateful to Michelle, Lorraine and Abby for their support and know their family story will make an impact on everyone who hears it.
'We'd love for as many people as possible across Scotland and beyond to join us at Race for Life."
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