A St Albans woman who lost her mother to cancer is hoping her story will inspire others to take part in Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life

Nadia Parles, 31, is urging women to take part in the event at Verulamium Park on Sunday, July 24.

Nadia’s mother fought pancreatic cancer for a year and a half before passing away in July 2015, aged 59.

Nadia took part in St Albans Race for Life last year, just four days before her mother died, so this event is particularly important to her. “It doesn’t matter how fit or fast you are because Race for Life is not competitive. It’s the chance to be part of a fearless army of women who are motivated to help raise money for life-saving research to beat cancer sooner.”

“This year I will be volunteering to help make 2016 the best event yet and I’m urging the brave men and women of St Albans to join the team with me.”

Nadia still takes preventative measures to decrease her risks explaining: “I increased my fitness levels and cut out meats, anything I can do to prevent cancer.’’

With firm commitment to her volunteer work, Nadia plans to take part in the Race for Life every year, and aims to raise £500 this July.

Unlike last year, Nadia is now training for the event: “I’ve actually joined the St Albans Striders. Doing a training course to take you up to a marathon helps, I can do the 5K or 10K.

Sharing her favourite part about last year’s race, Nadia added: “Last year it was particularly hard, but I knew how proud she was. I had a little cry but people were there to comfort me, it was like one big team.’’

Courtney Culverhouse, Race for Life event manager in Hertfordshire, said: “Race for Life is a women-only event but anyone can play their part as a volunteer - men and women of all ages and abilities. Volunteers don’t need to know anyone who is taking part in Race for Life. By simply joining the volunteer squad they will be doing their bit to help us beat cancer sooner.

“We are very grateful to Nadia for her support and we hope that the people of St Albans will feel inspired to join her, either by taking part or volunteering at Race for Life.”

On event day, volunteers are needed to help with a wide range of tasks from marshalling to handing out medals. Volunteers will gain practical, hands-on experience, working with people from all walks of life while helping to make a real difference in the fight against all cancers.

To enter Race for Life or sign up to volunteer click here or call 0300 123 0770.