Basingstoke ObserverA BUCKSKIN volunteer who thought illness would prevent her from entering the Race for Life, says volunteering at the event means she can still enjoy the day, remember loved ones and fundraise towards the challenge.
Carina Croissant, who lives with multiple sclerosis, first walked Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life around twelve years ago after losing her Dad to cancer. When the condition affected her mobility, she became a marshall and can more recently be found at the registration tent, welcoming participants as they arrive.
She now hopes to inspire others to play their part and step forward as a volunteer.
Carina, 52, shared: “It’s lovely to still be involved. When I realised I could no longer walk unaided, I just happened to see that I could volunteer. I really feel part of the team and there are lots of jobs for me to do. Being a volunteer is priceless and just as important as raising funds.”
In Basingstoke, 1,200 people are diagnosed with cancer every year. It’s hoped hundreds of people will help join the fight against it on 29 May, when Race for Life will be held at the town’s War Memorial Park.
Women, men and children can choose from 3k, 5k and 10k events. There is also a chance to take part in Pretty Muddy - a mud-splattered obstacle course - and there’s a Pretty Muddy Kids option too.
Carina added: “There are so many people affected by cancer. My dad and step-mum were lost to cancer, my friend is being treated for it and so it’s so important to help try to beat this illness that takes people’s lives.
Originally, I organised a team called Mustang Sally after my Dad’s boat and that’s a great way of taking part with friends. I still wear the name on my shirt in memory of him.
Now I’m volunteering, I still organise a fundraising page to support Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life and receive a medal.
Whether you’re walking, running or volunteering, everyone is fighting for the same cause and everyone supports each other. You really feel the emotion and it’s a privilege to hear why people are doing it, every story is different.”
This year marks Cancer Research UK’s 20th anniversary and thanks to supporters, the charity will continue to fund pioneering research that helps us understand more about cancer and how to beat it.
Elisa Mitchell, Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson for the South East, said: “Without our volunteers supporting Race for Life, our events couldn’t happen. We are incredibly grateful to Carina for her dedication to the Basingstoke event and look forward to seeing her again this year as she welcomes supporters to our new location at the War Memorial Park.
Our Race for Life events are open to all. Whether you’re walking it, running it or volunteering. Race for Basingstoke will be fun, emotional, colourful, uplifting and an unforgettable event this year.”
To volunteer, visit raceforlife.org/volunteer.
To enter, visit raceforlife.org.
