Bob Bowman

Malina has sadly passed away so her husband Bob is running in her memory here is his nomination for her: I am nominating my wonderful wife Malina, who in January 2010 was diagnosed with breast cancer and stoically went through all the challenges that so many women face, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Unfortunately, in May 2011 the cancer returned and with the same resolve she prepared for significant surgery only to be told the cancer had spread to her liver and was incurable. The doctors said the prognosis was not good and it is only a matter of time; she is 31. Despite this devastating news for her, our family and friends, Malina has come out fighting. She has been incredibly strong and positive and is determined that she will not be beaten; she has every intention of being fit and well to enjoy the Olympics next year and indeed many more Olympics to come. Her attitude has been truly inspirational amongst our friends and family. Being a torch bearer would give her a goal to aim for next year and would be a fantastic antidote during the lows; it would be a lie to say there are none, particularly as she faces aggressive chemotherapy shortly. Malina is a beautiful, loving and genuine wife and mother who means the world to us all. I truly believe she epitomises the Olympic spirit and has entered a race where giving your all is everything if you want to win through. For her standing on the sidelines is simply not an option and I know she will never give up hope of succeeding.