A MUM-OF-THREE who beat both breast and bowel cancer will share her message of hope by encouraging others to take part in an overnight fundraising mission.

Jacquie Ball is encouraging friends, families and colleagues to enter teams for Cancer Research UK’s Relay for Life in Southend.

Jacquie, 57, of Balmoral Road, Westcliff, was diagnosed with cancer in December 2008 – two days before Christmas.

She has been treated successfully with surgery at Southend Hospital, and is taking part in one of its clinical trials to beat the disease.

Jacquie said: “I am thrilled to be part of Cancer Research UK’s Relay For Life, in Southend, for the third year and I am looking forward to taking part once again in the ‘Lap of Honour’ with fellow cancer survivors and celebrating our achievements.

“Cancer affects so many people every year. Relay For Life is a great way to support them by raising money to fund Cancer Research UK’s life-saving research.”

The overnight event takes place at Garon Park, on July 28.

Team members take it in turns to walk around a track. As the event continues non-stop through the night, team members not on the track take turns to rest, eat, or sleep.

As dusk falls, the Candle of Hope ceremony begins. Specially made bags, decorated with messages in memory of loved ones, are filled with sand and lit up with candles around the track.

All the money raised will help Cancer Research UK’s research to improve understanding of the disease and how best to prevent, diagnose and treat different forms of cancer.

Dan Turpin, volunteer chairman of Relay For Life in Southend, who called Jacquie an inspiration, added: “We would love to hear from anyone who wants to find out more about Relay For Life and how they can get involved.”

For details call 08716 412602 or visit www.relay.cancerresearchuk.org