Slimline Laura will run
BRAVE Laura Ripley will be running this year's Race For Life in Alexandra Park.
Laura - who at her heaviest was 38 stone - is now down to 23st 4lbs following stomach stapling surgery last year, a strict 650 calories a day diet, and twice weekly gym visits.
She has been asked by staff at Falaise gym to join them in the Cancer Research UK race in June this year, and is already in training for the walking section of the event.
Laura, 24, said: "I'm determined to finish it, to go all the way around the park.
"I walk everywhere now, I only get a few cabs, and I'm so much fitter. I'm a clothes size 22-24 and I shop in Peacocks now.
"I've got a few sponsors already, people in my family, the district nurses and Southern Counties radio.
"When my family found out I was running the race they said, good for you. They weren't surprised. They know I can do anything.
"They will be there cheering me on "
Laura, of Stonehouse Drive, St Leonards, appeared on ITV's Jeremy Kyle show last year, following her 30st mother Doreen's death from obesity in 2005.
The Race for Life entry is all part of Laura's aim to be 11st, and be able to fit into a pair of jeans. At 14st she will be able to have a tummy tuck operation on the NHS.
She wants to thank her family - aunts Ann Williams and Julie Martin, uncles and cousins - for their ongoing support. "They have been brilliant," she said.
To sponsor Laura call Falaise gym on 0845 3374040.
Are you running The Race for Life? Let us us hear your story by emailing julia.taylor@trbeckett.co.uk, calling Julia on 01424 856786 or by leaving comments below.
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Weather for Hastings
Sunday 12 February 2012
Today
Light rain
Temperature: 2 C to 5 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: North west
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