SHE has taken part in Race for Life for the past SEVEN years – but this year will be extra special.

For this year Ruth Walker’s dad Richard will be watching her after surviving prostate cancer.

He is now doing well following intensive treatment and Ruth, 26, wants to help others and make a stand against cancer by entering Race for Life.

Ruth has taken part in the event every year since moving to Southampton from Derby in 2006 to study magazine journalism at Solent University.

She stayed in Southampton after graduating and now her dad will be travelling south to see her cross the finish line.

Ruth, who lives off The Avenue, said: “It will be so special to have Dad there. It was January 2010 when our family was hit with the news that my dad had prostate cancer.

“You hear the word cancer and your heart stops – you can’t help but think the worst.

“Luckily he had spotted the signs early and got himself checked out.”

Richard, 54, needed a series of injections and intensive radiotherapy.

Ruth said: “He was offered new radiotherapy treatment in London.

“Although the side effects were not pleasant he responded well and went from strength to strength.

“One wonderful day we got the news that his cancer had gone into remission and he recently found out he no longer needs medication.”

Along with surgery and chemotherapy, radiotherapy is a cornerstone of cancer treatment.

In fact, one in every four people with cancer receives radiotherapy and it successfully cures more people than drugs.

Cancer Research UK scientists helped pioneer the development of early radiotherapy and continue to support research into improving treatments with the goal of making radiotherapy even more effective and kinder for patients.

Ruth added: “Donations in support of Race for Life help make these treatments possible.

“I decided early on the best way to get through my dad being diagnosed was to have a positive attitude.

“You can’t love cancer, but you can appreciate how it brings your loved ones closer.

“My dad has been nothing but brave throughout. He never wavered in his belief that he would beat it.”

Ruth’s grandmother had breast cancer and Ruth and her sister, Ellen, have fundraised for Cancer Research UK since they were children, including tandem-rides around their home town and the Great North Run.

“When I moved to Southampton, Race for Life became my new annual fundraising event and I won’t give up fundraising until there is a cure for every cancer.

“My dad is living proof of what sponsorship money can do, thanks to the wonderful people who take part.

“I love the atmosphere. It will be extra special with my dad, my mum Dawn – who will be celebrating her 52nd birthday – and my partner, David Loveridge, there.”

Race for Life is at the Garrison Ground and University of Winchester Stadium on Sunday, June 9 and at Southampton Common on Sunday, July 14.

Go to raceforlife.org.