A WOMAN who can no longer participate in the Race for Life has become a volunteer, and is urging others to take part.

Carina Croissant, who lives with multiple sclerosis, first walked Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life 12 years ago after losing her father to cancer.

As her MS progressed and began to affect her mobility, Carina became a volunteer; she first acted as a marshal, and now works in the registration tent, welcoming participants as they arrive.

Carina said: “It’s lovely to still be involved.

“When I realised I could no longer walk unaided, I just happened to see that I could volunteer.

“I really feel part of the team and there are lots of jobs for me to do.

“Being a volunteer is priceless and just as important as raising funds.”

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While she can no longer complete the Race for Life herself, Carina still raises money for the charity, organising a fundraising page to support Cancer Research UK.

Carina added: “Whether you’re walking, running or volunteering, everyone is fighting for the same cause and everyone supports each other.

“You really feel the emotion and it’s a privilege to hear why people are doing it, every story is different.”

In Basingstoke, 1,200 people are diagnosed with cancer every year; it is hoped that hundred of people will join the fight against it on May 29, when Race for Life will be held at the town’s War Memorial Park.

Men, women and children will be able to choose from 3k, 5k, and 10k events.

There will also be a chance to take part in Pretty Muddy, a mud splattered obstacle course, with a Pretty Muddy Kids option also available for young people.

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Elisa Mitchell, Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson for the Southeast, said: “Without our volunteers supporting Race for Life, our events couldn’t happen.

“We are incredibly grateful to Carina for her dedication to the Basingstoke event and look forward to seeing her again this year as she welcomes supporters to our new location at the War Memorial Park.

“Our Race for Life events are open to all; whether you’re walking it, running it or volunteering.”

This year marks Cancer Research UK’s 20th anniversary.

Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, in partnership with Tesco, raises funds for world class research to help beat 200 types of cancer, including bowel cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, testicular cancer, brain cancer, children’s cancers and leukaemia.

To find out how to volunteer, visit raceforlife.org/volunteer.

For more information about how to enter the Race for Life, visit raceforlife.org.

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