FOUR months ago Michaela Dobson was fighting for life while undergoing radiotherapy treatment for breast cancer.

This Sunday, the mother-of-three will celebrate her return to health by taking part in Cancer Research UK’s Race For Life on York’s Knavesmire.

But the 44-year-old, who lives in Woodthorpe, York, will also be running in support of her older sister, Sheila Burkill, who is still fighting her battle with cancer.

Sheila, 55, has already beaten two types of the disease, and is now awaiting a hip replacement operation after doctors found cancerous cells in her hip.

Michaela said: “Doing the Race For Life has become my aim over the last months and I know it’s going to be an emotional day on Sunday.”

Michaela, who works for Wallis Business Services, in Clifton Moor, will be taking part in the 5km race with her eight-year-old daughter, Bethany.

They will joined by Michaela’s friends, Alison O’Doherty and Kate Sykes, and their two daughters – Annie, ten, and Emily, eight.

Michaela said: “My daughter is going to have “For Mummy and Aunty Sheila” written on her back and I will have “For my sister”. I’m hoping Sheila will be well enough to come and watch.”

Michaela was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer last July and has since undergone two operations, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

She said: “I was devastated at first, but my family and friends rallied round to help. My husband, Derek, was my rock throughout.”

To sponsor Michaela, visit her online fundraising page at raceforlifesponsorme/michaeladobson

• More than 5,000 women have already signed up to take part in either the 5km or 10km race on Sunday, and it’s not too late to join them. Log on to raceforlife.org or phone 0871 641 111. Entries close at midnight tomorrow.

• Don’t miss The Press next Monday for our 16-page souvenir pullout.