Quirky headgear challenge cancer patient Sara Cutting to take on London Marathon

Sara Cutting, 48, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014 and went on to have surgery and gruelling chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

During this time she set up her popular daily headgear challenge, in which she posted a photo of herself on Facebook wearing a different hat every day for year.

The posts quickly became popular around the world, with people sending in donations of hats for Ms Cutting, from Brighton, to wear.

Ms Cutting now also raises awareness of the importance of checking for signs of cancer and fundraises for Macmillan Cancer Support.

She is hoping to hit the £25,000 mark for the charity following her run, which will be used for its new Horizon Centre in Brighton.

Ms Cutting took part in the Brighton half marathon in February but says tomorrow will be the big one.

She said: “I thought the training for the half-marathon was tough but the full marathon is a whole other ball game.

“I starting running before my diagnosis, and while treatment stopped me for a while, I wanted more than ever to get back to it once I was fit enough.

“I’d always said I wouldn’t run a marathon but when the opportunity arose I couldn’t find it in me to say no, so I said yes.

“I have run along our beautiful seafront more times than I care to remember in every conceivable weather condition.

“I have had injuries and illness along the way but I’m here and raring to go.

“Going through cancer treatment is a marathon in itself.

“It is really brutal and have you have to dig deep to keep going.

“I’ve been witness to a lot of friends dying from cancer recently and when I am complaining and hurting, I remind myself I’m still lucky to be here.

“Macmillan helps to pick up the pieces to help those affected by cancer, and those who have lost loved ones, and that’s what keeps me going.

To donate, text SNOO68 £1 or SNOO68 £3 (apply the same to £5 and £10) to 70070.

Alternatively people can visit justgiving.com/chemosnoodhead