A MUM-OF-TWO breast cancer survivor has thanked a hospital ward that ‘saved her life’ and is urging patients to join a fundraising mission to help give back.

Angela Collins, 42, has signed up to take part in Bournemouth Hospital Charity’s first ever Walk for Wards on Saturday, September 23 and is calling for everyone to show their support.

Patients, families, friends and staff of Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals will join forces at Avon Heath Country Park to walk either 1k, 4k or 8k to raise funds for a hospital ward or department of their choice.

Angela, from Ringwood, said she is taking part to give back after her world was turned upside down when she received the news she had cancer last year.

She said: “I was diagnosed with breast cancer almost exactly a year ago.

“Having never been in hospital for anything other than one night for the birth of each of my kids, I don't mind saying I was absolutely terrified, for myself and my family.”

Angela began treatment at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital’s Oncology Department, which included chemotherapy, radiotherapy and undergoing surgery.

“With the massive support from Dr Hickish, Esther, the many fabulous chemotherapy nurses and wonderful reception team on Ward 10 as well as Mr Perry, Christine and the rest of the Breast Care Team in the Jigsaw Building, I am able to say I am a survivor,” she said.

“Those two departments literally saved my life. I will never be able to thank them enough, despite all the horrible things they had to do to me!”

Angela’s husband Adrian and two children Daisy, 14, and Louis, 12, will take part as well as her sister’s family and one of her best friends.

“I would never have got through my treatment without the support of these people and now they are helping me to give something back to those who saved me.

“Anyone who knows me will know that I would’ve never walked 8km or even to the local shop before treatment! It’s not going to be the easiest of things while I’m still recovering from the effects of treatment, but at least it’s not running!”

To support a ward or department close to their hearts sign up to Walk for Wards at BHCharity.org/w4w/, or call 01202 704060.