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Carol Smales is our number 1 Race For Life runner
BRAVE Carol Smales is the Free Press reader chosen to wear the special number one plate at this Sunday's Race for Life.
We asked readers to share their reasons for running this year's Race for Life.
Although we received many inspiring stories, Carol's tale showed such determination and bravery in the face of cancer, that she was chosen to wear the special number one and to start Sunday's race.
62-year-old Carol of Flamborough was diagnosed with breast cancer nine years ago and the disease has hit her family incredibly hard.
Her mother died of ovarian cancer, her sister succumbed to a fatal breast cancer, pancreatic cancer claimed her brother Eddie and her niece also died from the disease.
Following Carol's diagnosis in 2000, she had to leave her job of 33 years at a Leeds printing firm to undergo radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
After ending her job, Carol decided to leave Leeds altogether and retired to Flamborough eight-years ago where she says she has been very happy.
In February this year, a genetic test showed that she had inherited a cancer gene and was told that a double mastectomy operation was the best way for her to continue battling the disease.
Her operation is booked for next month.
She said that she felt 'honoured' to be wearing the number one plate for Sunday's race and admitted that she was 'scared stiff' about her upcoming operation.
"I'm really looking forward to doing the Race for Life and I'm just glad I'm fit enough to do it – though I'll be walking it, not running!"
"I am fighting this disease as best I can. It is not going to get me like the rest of family.
"I always try to stay upbeat, there are people worse off than me, but I am living proof that you can get through this," said Carol.
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To read more stories about Bridlington, as well as comprehensive sport and leisure coverage, jobs, property, motors and family announcements, buy the Free Press which is published every Thursday.
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Weather for Bridlington
Saturday 04 February 2012
Today
Light snow
Temperature: -0 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 28 mph
Wind direction: South
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 1 C to 5 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: West
