Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

I'm running a half marathon to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support but to also give me a reason, a goal, to live my life to the fullest and make a difference while living with Stage IV cancer. 

I was diagnosed with breast cancer on Dec 30, 2014, went through surgeries and chemotherapy for 6 months in early 2015, and on Sep 20, 2015, just 5 days before my 50th birthday, I was told that my cancer metastasized to my bones and I now have Stage IV cancer. They said they can treat me but cannot cure me. On Dec 21, 2015, my oncologist said the cancer is gradually spreading so I will start a new treatment from Jan 5, 2016.

I'm learning how to live with cancer but cancer doesn't just affect me - it affects my whole family as well as my close friends.  My husband has been my rock and he stays strong for me even though he may be scared inside.  The whole family is so supportive it makes me feel strong, loved and happy.  My friends also help me stay strong.  I am so lucky :-)

And my life is not over yet!  Despite the medical setbacks, I'm feeling great, looking healthy, and emotionally very positive so I'm going to defy the odds, not be a statistic, and live a long fulfilling and meaningful life.  Participating in this half marathon is one way for me to prove to myself that I'm going to be o.k.  I'm also going to be able to give back and help other cancer patients by raising funds. 

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

I would be grateful if you would support me in raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.  I promise to complete my run in the Surrey Half Marathon in March.  Together, we can eradicate cancer in the future.

With love, gratitude and respect,
Irene Tomoe Cooper

PS 
For those of you interested, the half marathon information is here: http://surreyhalfmarathon.co.uk/