A postwoman is running the Great North Run in support of her brother who was given months to live after an incurable brain tumour diagnosis.
Tracy Bowe, 47, is tackling the half-marathon in Newcastle for Macmillan Cancer Support because of the help the charity has given her brother Paul Tweddle.
Paul, who lives in Darlington, was diagnosed with incurable brain tumours in 2021 aged just 44.
Tracy said: “When my brother was diagnosed with incurable cancer last year, I felt like the rug was pulled from under me, overnight our whole world turned upside down.
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“I know that Paul’s time is limited but I refuse to let cancer ruin the time I have left with my brother; I don’t treat him any differently.
“My sister Leanne and I will be running together, we wanted to do something for Paul so he can see what he means to us, I want him there on the finish line in South Shields waiting with a bottle of wine.”
Paul was given six to twelve months to live after his diagnosis last year.
He was supported by a Macmillan nurse who helped him apply for PIP and access benefits to make him more comfortable.
Tracy is running with her sister Leanne, who is also a Postwoman in Leicester, and they have both thrown themselves into training and fundraising.
Tracy said: “I’ve never done anything like this before, but I wanted to give something back to the Macmillan oncology nurses who have supported Paul from the beginning, it’s made a big difference.
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“As a postie I know I’m fit because I walk up to ten miles per day, but running is different and I needed support, so I joined a local running club Team Caterpillar, it was the best thing I could’ve done, I’ve built up my confidence and stamina, I’m so grateful for their support.
“I want to give myself the best chance and complete it to the best of my ability, I’m doing this for my brother.”
Tracy, who lives and works in Middleham, North Yorkshire, has already raised over £1,700 and has set herself a target of £2,000.
She has been overwhelmed by the support of the communities on her delivery route; customers around the villages of Harmby, Spennithorne and East Witton have pinned posters and generously donated to the cause.
Tracy said: “The support of the communities around me has been so heart-warming, I’ve raised more than I ever could’ve imagined.
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"I know times are tough for everyone at the moment, the generosity of people has amazed me, I want to say a big thank you to my supporters.
“We all know people affected by cancer, it’s motivated me to know that the money is going straight to Macmillan and helping people like Paul.”
Tracy also has 18 giant gnomes on display in her front garden, two dressed up in support of her fundraising for Macmillan.
People have been taking selfies with them for a small donation and the gnomes have helped Tracy raise over £100.
To support Tracy’s fundraising visit her Just Giving page.
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