A mother-of-two who has been undergoing breast cancer treatment has spoken about the emotional moment she crossed the line at a Race for Life event on Sunday.

The Comet: Julia Lawley with her husband Ross and two children Imogene 8 and Felix 6 after the race on SundayJulia Lawley with her husband Ross and two children Imogene 8 and Felix 6 after the race on Sunday (Image: Archant)

Julia Lawley, of The Sycamores in Baldock, was in tears as she completed the 5km race in Stevenage organised by Cancer Research UK – just three weeks after completing a course of radiotherapy.

The 36-year-old has taken part in the annual fundraiser at Fairlands Valley Park seven times before but was diagnosed with breast cancer in October last year.

Since then she has undergone three months of chemotherapy and in March had a double mastectomy and Lymph nodes removed after the cancer spread.

The former computer software engineer was joined on the day by her husband Ross and her two children – Imogene, 8, and six-year-old son Felix, who both completed the 5km course.

Julia was also supported by family and friends all running as part of The Gin Club, named jokingly after a young parents group she attends.

“It’s been a difficult time and I needed a goal to keep me going and to complete it is a great feeling,” she said.

“The event atmosphere was brilliant. The supporters and marshals did a great job encouraging us round.

“There were tears at the end when the whole team crossed the finish line with me. I was unsure as to whether I’d be able to do the race when I signed up as I didn’t know where I would be in my treatment.

“I’m delighted I managed to do it, albeit walking. Plans are already a foot to sign up for next year and I’ll be running it.”

Following her radiotherapy, Julia is continuing to take tamoxifen tablets – used to fight breast cancer – and will continue to do so for the next 10 years.

So far Julia has raised more than £2,350 for Cancer Research. To make a donation visit www.justgiving.com/the-gin-club