A WOMAN who has raised an amazing £10,500 for cancer research since being diagnosed with leukaemia four years ago is determined to continue helping others, despite being in constant pain.

Allison White, of Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, was diagnosed with acute promyelocytic leukaemia in July 2009 and has undergone intensive chemotherapy.

The 36-year-old is now in remission but the treatment has caused further health problems, including chronic back and joint pain.

Her illness also meant she had to leave her job at a pharmacy.

Yet, despite these difficulties, Miss White still finds the strength to fundraise for research into leukaemia and other forms of cancer, and has raised more than £10,500.

With the help of friends, family and Neville Parade Methodist Church in Newton Aycliffe, she has organised charity nights and collections in aid of Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research, and has packed bags in aid of Macmillan Nurses.

Her next event will be a tombola and raffle at Bishop Auckland Hospital in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support – a charity that is a lifeline to Miss White and others affected by cancer.

“People often think once you have your chemotherapy you are fine again but it isn’t like that,” said Miss White. “I enjoy the fundraising as it gives me confidence and Macmillan Cancer Support is such a worthwhile cause.

“It supports you before, during and after your treatment and it is there for you 24 hours a day.

“I lost a lot of friends when I was diagnosed with leukaemia but, thanks to Macmillan, I have made new friends.”

Macmillan Cancer Support runs an information centre at Bishop Auckland Hospital that is open to anyone affected by cancer, including friends, family and carers.

As well as offering a wide range of information material, it also sells affordable headwear for those who lose their hair during chemotherapy and regular bra clinics for women who have had a mastectomy.

The raffle and tombola, which Miss White is organising alongside her friend Aidene Sykes, a Macmillan volunteer, takes place from 10am to 2pm on Thursday, April 25.

For more information about the charity or to donate raffle prizes contact the centre on 01388-455230.