A GRANDMOTHER who survived cancer will take part in the Race for Life for the fifth time this year.

Valerie Beer, of King’s Road, Benfleet, was diagnosed with tonsil cancer in March 2007.

She has been fundraising ever since and has raised more than £2,000 for Cancer Research.

After being diagnosed, Mrs Beer, 69, had surgery at Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford, to remove her larynx.

Following an intensive course of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, doctors gave her the all clear although she now struggles to talk.

Speaking with the aid of an iPad, Mrs Beer said: “We were all stunned.

“I have never smoked, so I didn’t think something like this would affect me.

“After I regained my strength from the treatment, I knewIwanted to do something to help others so that they don’t have to suffer what I’ve been through.”

Mrs Beer will be taking part in the Race for Life on Sunday, June 29, in Basildon with thousands of others.

She added: “With the help of my friends and family I attempted my first Race for Life in 2009.

“I found it quite difficult. I couldn’t compete without the help of my daughter, Claire.

“I cannot say thank you enough to my family, friends and neighbours for their continued support.

“And, of course, I would like to say how grateful I am to the doctors and nurses at Broomfield and Southend, for without them I wouldn’t be here today.”