MORE than 8,000 fundraisers are gearing up for Edinburgh's Race for Life tomorrow in aid of Cancer Research UK.
Among them is one woman who knows all too well how important it is to support the cause. Diane Callaghan, from Hawthornbank Place, was diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2000.
Today, thanks to treatment, she is fit and healthy again – and is tomorr
ow set to be the official starter for the Race For Life, which kicks off from Holyrood Park at 11am. It will see women jog, run or walk either the 10k or 5k route around Arthur's Seat.
More than £500,000 is expected to be raised by racers.
Diane cannot compete because of an injury, but she will be at the front of the masses rallying them on and sounding the starting horn. In the past she has completed six Race for Life runs, including three in the Capital.
Diane called the time she discovered her cancer "devastating" and a "total bombshell".
She said: "I always went for my regular smear tests, then in May 2000 I received the devastating diagnosis that I had cervical cancer. Everything happened so quickly. It was just a matter of weeks from thinking I was fine to receiving surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Hearing recently about Jade's cervical cancer brought it home to me again just how important it is to receive quick treatment."
She added: "I cannot wait to play my part in the event."
Cancer Research UK's organiser Sara-Jane Rice said: "It's great that Di will be able to get the Race for Life under way. Women of all ages, abilities, shapes and sizes join in. They motivate and inspire each other to complete the course. Many simply walk round, chatting and having fun, but they all share the wonderful spirit of sisterhood and pride on the day."
There will be plenty of entertainment on hand at this year's race from 10am, including the Nivea male cheerleaders.
At 10:30am there will be a moment's silence to remember all those who are fighting or have fought cancer.
Although everyone taking part will receive a bottle of water, runners are encouraged to bring more along and ensure they stay hydrated throughout the day.
Organisers are asking racers to try to make it to the event by public transport. There will be no car parking in Holyrood Park and the usual Sunday road closures will be in place.
Last year, Cancer Research UK spent more than £6 million in Edinburgh.
The charity hopes 680,000 women will take part in more than 230 Race for Life events across the UK and raise more than £60m.
