A BLOOD cancer survivor will be taking part in a virtual fun run to raise money for those living with the disease.

Leanne Keane is participating in the festive-themed event for charity Lymphoma Action with her husband Alan.

The Bury couple will be sporting Christmassy outfits as they take part in the run on December 5 and 6.

Alan intends to be dressed as Santa and while Leanne will be an elf.

Lymphoma is the fifth common cancer in the UK and Leanne, 40, received treatment for the disease in 2013.

Leanne said: "I think it is important to raise awareness about lymphoma, as it can sometimes be difficult to diagnose.

“I had none of the typical symptoms related to the condition myself, and it took many months for me to receive my diagnosis.

"As a fit and healthy 32-year-old, I never believed that I would be told that I had cancer, but I cannot express how grateful I am that I got the treatment I needed.

"My eldest daughter was two at the time of my diagnosis, but I have been able to watch her grow, and we have since been blessed with another daughter who is now almost four.

“We are really looking forward to taking part in Lymphoma Action’s Virtual Santa Run.

“It is a bit of fun and a great way to raise money for a fantastic cause.

"It’ll certainly make my kids and neighbours laugh when they see my husband and I dressed up."

The fundraiser will see participants run or a walk 5k in their local area over the first weekend in December.

Sarah Thorn, partnerships manager at Lymphoma Action added: “We are so grateful to Leanne and Alan for their support.

“This has been a challenging year for everyone, and like many charities we have faced increased financial pressure owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, whilst demand on our services has increased.

"But as the only charity in the UK dedicated to lymphoma, we are still providing vital support and information for people affected by this blood cancer and we are still thinking of ways that people can support us and raise money to help us continue our work.

"Through funds raised by people like Leanne and Alan, we can continue making sure that no one has to face their lymphoma alone.”