A WOMAN who lost her sister to leukaemia aims to raise money for research into the disease when she takes part in the Bupa Great North Run this weekend.

Paula Henderson, 39, is running the half-marathon in memory of her sister, Vicki Waldie, 43, who lost her battle with leukaemia on Boxing Day last year.

Mrs Henderson's nephew, Jamie, Vicki's son, had already been diagnosed with myelodysplasia (MDS) - a blood disorder related to leukaemia that affects the immune system.

"Doctors told us that the chances of mother and son getting leukaemia were 53 million to one," said Mrs Henderson.

When Jamie was diagnosed in early 1999, he spent eight weeks in hospital having a bone marrow transplant from an anonymous donor. His mother was at his bedside day and night, nursing him through the treatment.

Mrs Waldie got her sister involved in running while Jamie was undergoing treatment, and it was while the pair were training for the 2000 Bupa Great North Run that Mrs Waldie was struck down by a virus and had to pull out of the event.

Weeks later, she was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, an aggressive form of blood cancer more commonly found in children.

A year later, she underwent a bone marrow transplant, but relapsed last year.

Mrs Henderson has been training hard for Sunday's event, with Jamie's support, but admits she is not a natural runner.

"Doing this run it is my way of celebrating Vicki's life and helping thousands of people like Jamie by raising cash for more research into this terrible disease," said Mrs Henderson.

"Also, after years of worrying about Jamie and Vicki, I find running my way of switching off."

Since the transplant, Jamie, of Crossfield Road, Darlington, is doing well.

Now aged 11, he has started secondary school and hopes to cheer on his aunt as she tackles the 13-mile course.

To sponsor Mrs Henderson, visit www.justgiving.com/ paulahenderson