Worthing mother's Race for Life challenge in memory of her daughter

Shirley Mostyn said she is still "absolutely devastated" by Debbie's death in October 2007, and that is why she is taking part in this year's Cancer Research Race for Life at Worthing Rugby Club.

Shirley, 75, of Sompting Road, Sompting, said: "Debbie and I were like two peas in a pod. We were extremely close and we saw each other every day.

Destroys the family

"This disease doesn't just stop the person with the cancer, it destroys the family and it changes their life forever.

"I still weep every day about Debbie and I think to myself, if I can bring some money in to help find a cure and prevent this happening to anybody else, then that's my aim in life."

Debbie, of The Martlets, Sompting, was Shirley's only living relative, except for her brother who lives in Wales.

Lump

Debbie discovered she had cancer after she found a lump in her breast in 2004. She went to see her GP and days later was referred to Worthing Hospital where she received the distressing news.

She immediately started a year-long course of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and it was hoped this would cure the disease.

But further tests showed it had spread throughout her body, including to her lungs, and Debbie was told there was nothing doctors could do to stop its progression.

Amazing

She died in Worthing Hospital on October 21, 2007, aged just 51.

Shirley said: "She coped so well and accepted things without complaining. She got on with life and I used to say to her, 'Debbie, you are so amazing'.

"I miss her more every day. She found amazing courage and always said 'Mum, this is all the wrong way round. I should be looking after you'."

Shirley has taken part in the Race for Life before, but for this year's event on Sunday, July 19, she has become an ambassador '“ a role designed to encourage women sign up.

Team gorgeous

She will be running as a member of Team Gorgeous, a group of friends who have all been touched by cancer. One of the women in the group is Sheila Nutley, whose story was featured in the Herald last year.

She battled through her own bout of cancer, but many of those closest to her were not so fortunate '“ her mother, mother-in-law, brother, as well as close friend Debbie have all died from the disease.

Shirley and Debbie worked together, running antiques fairs along the south coast.

Someone to talk to

"There's so many things I miss about Debbie, but mostly I miss having someone to talk to; someone on my side," Shirley said.

"Even though we knew the cancer was terminal, I just never thought she would die. It was one of those things we never really talked about, it was just too hard, but I wish I had now.

"Debbie was a lovely person, with a great personality. The world stopped when I learned she had this terrible disease and I want to do everything I can to alleviate anyone else from having that pain."

To sign up for this year's Race for Life, visit www.raceforlife.org ">www.raceforlife.org

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