Prestwich cancer survivor shines with grandson on charity night walk

Farida Anderson, 61, and her 10-year-old grandson, Oscar, joined more than 1,500 people on Friday, October 13, at the Manchester Shine Night Walk for Cancer Research UK.

Farida was diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer shortly after her 50th birthday.

She shared her story, from diagnosis to survival, last month to entice more into joining the walk.

Following the event, she said: “My beautiful grandson Oscar was born the month before I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013.

“I felt blessed to have him by my side throughout the walk.

“Every year I see him grow it reminds me how blessed I am to be in his life and it’s thanks to research that I am.”

Farida, who has an MBE, has also received an honorary doctorate from Salford University for her charity work supporting families in need.

The 61-year-old has also had a women’s centre named after her in Oldham

Read more about Farida’s story here.

The event started at the Castlefield Bowl at 7pm and the 10K route passed landmarks including the Manchester Opera House, Manchester Cathedral and Chinatown Arch.

More than £230,000 was raised for Cancer Research UK to help enable scientists to find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.

Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson for the North West, Jemma Humphreys, said: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part in the Shine Night Walk in Manchester. 

“Life-saving research is being funded right now thanks to our supporters who fundraise.

“The atmosphere was full of emotion, courage, tears and laughter as people celebrated the lives of those dear to them who have survived cancer and remembered loved ones lost to the disease.  

“Now we’re asking everyone who took part to return the money they’ve raised as soon as possible.

“Funds raised will help scientists find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, helping save more lives.”