'I'll run through the pain barrier' (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

'I'll run through the pain barrier'

Jennifer Mallorie-Williams Picture Ref: 99153-33A CANCER survivor who needs a hip replacement and is attempting this year's Great North Run dressed as a banana.

Mum-of-two Jennifer Mallorie-Williams, 30, survived childhood leukaemia.

Spells of gruelling chemotherapy left her with avascular necrosis or bone deadness making even small steps difficult.

But on September 18 she plans to block out the pain and compete in the half marathon wearing a 6ft banana suit.

Jennifer, of Laughton Way, Abbey Meads, hopes to raise at least £500 for Leukaemia Research.

She said: "Chemotherapy is a punishing treatment as some, like myself, suffer side-effects.

"But to come out the other side and be in a position to help improve the treatment for others is something special."

Jennifer a former radiographer at Princess Margaret Hospital has stepped up her training.

"I can't believe I'm training for a half marathon, but here I am," she said. "I'm doing around three runs a week to prepare.

"It is difficult and it can be painful. I'll need a hip replacement at some point." Often chemotherapy can stifle chances of conceiving. But housewife Jennifer and husband Gareth have two 'miracle' children, Sam, three, and two-year-old Lucy.

"They think it's great I'm doing this," said Jennifer. "They're getting really excited. Even though they're young they've both taken part in short runs themselves. Sam recently did a kid's run in Chiseldon, which he really enjoyed." The BUPA Great North Run in Newcastle is Britain's biggest running event and this year celebrates its 25th anniversary.

Jennifer will be running alongside 25 other crazy runners who will swap their normal running kit for a banana costume. Collectively, they hope to raise £25,000 for the cancer charity.

To sponsor Jennifer on her run call on 01793 341825 or go to www.justgiving.com/jmw

Kevin Shoesmith Health reporter