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A WOMAN with breast cancer, who devotes her time to helping others cope with the disease, has helped her friends organise a sponsored swim at Haverhill.
Rachel Farrant, 43, of Mallow Walk, Haverhill, had planned to take part but had to pull out after learning that her cancer had returned last December.
Her son Daniel and friends Debbie Smith, Dawn Ince, Grace Costa and Shirley Barber completed the swim and hope to raise more than £500 through sponsorship. Another friend, Cheryl McGurl, had sponsors but could not swim herself.
Despite the fact that she is currently undergoing chemotherapy, Mrs Farrant was determined to be at Haverhill Leisure Centre to support the swim in aid of the Breakthrough Breast Cancer Charity.
She is also working to promote the support group The Young Ones, which she has set up for younger women who get breast cancer.
Mrs Farrant was originally diagnosed with breast cancer in October 1999, followed by chemotherapy, a mastectomy and radiotherapy.
Last December she learned the cancer had returned and she is now back to chemotherapy. She gave up her job to avoid stress and now devotes her spare time to helping others.
She said: "I think everything happens for a reason. By building up the support group, I am giving something back, giving people my positive energies.
"I try to live as normal a life as I can. You won't see me out without my make-up and my wig on. I make a huge effort to look after myself.
"Most women who get breast cancer are over 50 so I set up the support group for those from late 20s to late 40s. It helps to have someone who knows what you are going through to talk to."
Mrs Farrant, who is married to Nick and has sons Daniel, 22, and Robert, 19, sat at the edge of the pool counting laps during the swim, went home for a sleep then managed to attend a 1960s/1970s disco at Kedington and even dance a little.
Anyone interested in the support group can call Mrs Farrant on (01440) 762026, visit her web site at www.rachfarrant.co.uk or e-mail her at mail@rachfarrant.co.uk

PHOTO CAPTION: Battler... Rachel Farrant, who helped organise a sponsered swim.

E-Mail Link: mail@rachfarrant.co.uk