Determination and drive keep Mandie going
A young woman diagnosed with terminal breast cancer will take on the Stirling Scottish Marathon this weekend.
Mandie Stevenson was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2015 and turned to running as a way to keep fit – taking on her first half marathon two years ago just weeks after finishing chemotherapy.
The 28-year-old will raise money for Strathcarron Hospice during Sunday’s Marathon.
Doctors had initially given Mandie five years to live – but she believes running and a positive outlook has extended her life further.
She said:“When I was diagnosed in September 2015 it was a massive shock and I’d only just turned 26.
“They gave me two to three years and five at the very most, but I’ve kept myself fit and I’ve got a bucket list.
“I enjoy my life. I’ve achieved so much, and I’ve done everything I want to do.
“I believe I’ve lived longer because I run – and now I’m running a marathon.
“I just want as normal life as possible. Being busy and being normal keeps my mind off it – it is mind over matter.”Mandie, from Falkirk, has been training four times a week for the marathon.
She said:“Raising money for Strathcarron has been in the back of my mind and that’s kept me going when it has been hard.
“It feels good to do your bit for the hospice. It’s amazing that the Stirling Scottish Marathon is raising so much for Strathcarron and so much for good causes around the area.”