THE news of Jane Tomlinson's death will be very sad for her family and friends. But remembering her unstinting courage and bravery against cancer will be her true memorial.

To be told seven years ago that she had terminal cancer and then to respond in the way she did is not something everyone could aspire to. Indeed, I am not sure how I would respond if told such devastating news.

I would like to think I would be inspired by what she has done - her energy and faith in fighting her battle in which she endured many hurdles and challenges; and the many fundraising events for charity often, I am sure, against medical advice. Her battle was certainly an inspiration. It was an expression of life when death was always an expectation.

When the odds are against us, the daily treadmill becomes awesome and stressful, and at such times perhaps we should think about our difficulties and dilemmas and put them into perspective. Better still, be proactive and don't sink into desperation and depression. Easier said than done, but Jane Tomlinson did it and, hopefully, we can take something from her great example.

Bernie Walsh, Coxhoe, Durham