Val Evans was a supporter of Macmillan nurses long before she needed their help.

Now five years after being diagnosed with breast cancer she takes her fundraising role even more seriously.

Val, 52, of Scarborough Road, Cheney Manor, said: "I'm delighted that so many people have dedicated their time to raising money for the appeal.

"There have been so many wonderful events throughout the year. I particularly enjoyed being a marshal at the bike ride in the summer and taking part in the Flora Light Challenge for Women in Hyde Park in September.

"I hope people continue to come forward with their fundraising ideas and events to make 2004 even more successful for the appeal."

Financial assistant Val used to look forward to the charity's World's Biggest Coffee Morning event before she knew she had cancer.

She first detected a lump under her arm in June 1998, but she didn't even consider it could be cancerous.

"Cancer was the last thing on my mind at that point," she said. "My doctor asked me then how I would feel if the lump turned out to be cancerous. But I just thought cancer was something that wouldn't happen to me.

"Then a few weeks later I saw a consultant who told me it was breast cancer. I couldn't take it in. It felt like he wasn't really talking to me."

Six weeks after being diagnosed Val underwent a mastectomy. She underwent a six-session course of chemotherapy and was introduced to a Macmillan nurse.

She said: "Elaine Perry, the Macmillan nurse, was brilliant. I saw her every three weeks and knew that she was only a phone call away if ever I needed anything."

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