Pat is not a professional runner but her positive attitude is inspirational.
Being a part of Westies Joggers is like an extended family, she says, where the love of running and walking with like minded people give her a safe place to challenge herself, interact and be part of the community.
However a routine breast screen took her from a very healthy and active world into the world of people chronically ill.
“It was then to hospital with multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, blood tests, scans, infusions and medical appointments,” Pat said.
“My body is not my own anymore but life isn’t any less worth living if you have cancer. This attitude has given me a positive mindset to keep going and give my body the best chance to survive.
“I have lost friendships since my cancer diagnosis. Cancer is hard for some people to come to terms with and those around you sometimes can’t deal with it.”
She said you have to be kind to yourself as your emotions and physical appearance change.
“My family, friends and medical team are an incredible support and I’ve also had strangers approach me at various times stating that I’m an inspiration to them; they’ve seen me walking, running or swimming while undergoing treatment,” she said.
“I need to keep moving and achieving. For me, it’s walking, running and swimming. My body tells my brain I can’t physically do it but the immense satisfaction I get when I exercise gives me an amazing sense of pleasure and achievement.
“I know I can get through and rise above anything that is thrown at me.”
