A BRAVE 35-year-old mother has learnt to walk again after being crippled with cancer in her spine.

After being successfully treated for breast cancer four years ago Joanne Tinning, of Priory Lane, Penwortham, was horrified when the life-threatening condition returned.

This time doctors discovered cancer in her spine, lymph glands and left breast.

That was two years ago and the mum-of-one is still battling against the condition today.

But Joanne is determined not to be beaten by cancer and is planning to take part in this year's 5km Race for Life, supported by The Citizen, on Sunday, June 1, to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

Last year she joined nurses from Fulwood Hall Hospital, for the race at Preston Sports Arena, pushed in a wheelchair by friend and nurse Honor Jackson.

"For this year's Race for Life I'll use a walking frame as it is quite a distance for me," Joanne said.

When Joanne first discovered a lump in her right breast doctors, she claims, told her not to worry.

Surgeons at Manchester's Christie Hospital operated on Joanne four years ago to remove the lump before chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment at Chorley Hospital.

For the secondary cancer she has been put on a course of strong tablets and is one of the first cancer patients in Preston to try out the new 'cancer-busting' drug.

"This is aggressive treatment," she said. "I've given up work and some days are a battle. I was in a wheelchair for months and had physiotherapy. I need to look at each day with a positive attitude although walking is much easier."

Through all her years of suffering Joanne says the support of husband Jonathan, 33, daughter Bethany, seven, and friends like Honor has helped her through.

To sponsor Joanne and Honor call Fulwood Hall Hospital on 01772 704111.

Application forms for the race are available in The Citizen's Winckley Square offices or from the hotline on 08705 134 314.