Super Sam's a survivor
25 August 2008
This time last year Sam Naudin was enduring radiation therapy after a mastectomy.
The mother of two never imagined she would complete a foot race a year later.
Yesterday she finished the Noosa half marathon and then the 5km run-walk to raise money for Bloomhill Cancer Help ... with just a five-minute turnaround.
“I really didn’t think after the six months of chemotherapy and treatment I went through last year that there would be such a light at end of tunnel,” she said.
“I never thought my fitness would return to level it is, that’s for sure.
“But when you’ve got family and community like I have, they get behind you and they lift you.
“I got to the 11km mark today and my legs were sore and I was struggling. But you see people in the race and people on sidelines calling out and they lift you to a different level.”
Ms Naudin, who has raised $1500, said she finished the half marathon and then joined more than 30 people, some battling cancer now, for the Bloomhill Never Never Never Give Up 5km walk.
“That’s what is inspiring, having people out here today who have cancer and they’re doing the walk,” she said.
“I’ve got nothing to complain about, I’m out the other side.”
Walker Maureen Gurowski said she was inspired by Ms Naudin who she bonded with at a Bloomhill retreat.
Ms Gurowski, who has been battling cancer since 1999 and was last year diagnosed as terminal, said she was thrilled she could tick the walk off her “bucket list”.
“I was unsure I could do the walk so I’m really thrilled to have not only done it but completed it,” she said. “Bloomhill means so much to so many of us. I always thought this was my battle and I didn’t want to share it but it’s fabulous to come across a place where they understand where you’re at.
“There was another lady on the walk who had chemotherapy on Friday and did the walk on Sunday which was unbelievable because chemo can literally bring you to your knees.”
Ms Naudin is also planning to complete the Noosa Triathlon on November 2 and a 60km race in New Zealand in December.
If you want to donate money to Ms Naudin’s cause, Bloomhill, phone Jo Falla on 0403 181 887.
(L-R) Cancer survivor Sam Naudin (front right) completes the Noosa 10k Race and then joins cancer sufferer Maureen Gurowski (front left) in her five-kilometre race with the help of her Bloomhill supporters. Photo: Geoff Potter/n21457c
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