A WOMAN fighting breast cancer has inspired her best friend’s grand-daughter to take part in the Basildon Race for Life event next weekend.

Caroline Edwards, 51, from Pitsea, was diagnosed with cancer after finding a lump on her breast back in February and is about to undergo chemotherapy at Southend Hospital.

Caroline has been supported by her family and friends, including best pal Christine Bayford, 53, from Stanford-le-Hope.

Christine’s grand-daughter, nine-year-old Paris Bayford, will complete the Race for Life in Caroline’s honour.

Caroline said: “I’ve had a lot of support from everyone and am feeling very positive.

“Christine’s grandaughter Paris told her gran she wanted to run in the Race for Life with my face on her T-shirt. I think it’s a lovely thing for Paris to do. It’s given me a real boost.”

Paris, a pupil at Manor Primary School, in Tilbury, will be running alongside her aunt Tracey Dente, 32, in the 5km event on Sunday, June 6, at Gloucester Park, which raises funds and awareness for Cancer Research.

A tradition of the annual run is participants wear a top emblazoned with the photo of someone they are running for, or in memory of.

Caroline added: “Christine is a great friend and we’ll all be there to cheer on Paris. I’m proud of Paris for doing this.”

Caroline underwent a biopsy to remove the lump in her breast, which she detected herself.

She added: “It’s so important to examine yourself, that’s how I found my lump.

“I feel very positive. I have my down days but my family, especially my grandchildren always pull me through.”

For more information about the Basildon Race for Life and details of how to enter, log on to www.racefor life.org