Richard Blake

Marianne is an inspiration to everyone who's life she touches. Marianne is 37 years old. She completed the London Marathon last year in 4 hours and 20 minutes. The reason that is very special is because Marianne was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer back in 2006, aged just 33. It has since spread to her brain and liver. She ran the London marathon in that amazing time, with these conditions, as a result of hard work, determination and effort. Her doctors have no record of any person with secondary breast cancer in the brain and liver running a marathon (let alone in that time). They call her 'absolutely amazing'. She was given 3 months to live back in October last year. She is still here, feeling pretty good thanks to sheer persistance, self belief and determination. She is 100% determined she will beat the cancer. She inspires all around her. She raised 17,000 pounds for her cancer unit for a new machine to help people in her situation. Marianne continues to live life to the full and inspires everyone to enjoy life, be resiliant, be generous, treat strangers with kindness and 'just get on with things!'. Marianne is in great shape and continues to enjoy activities. She has told me she would love the honour of carrying the Olympic torch. She is also hopeful of attending the Handball and Volleyball events with her 16 year old niece who inspires to be like Marianne. Marianne would be honored to run with the torch for London 2012.