A YOUNG Greenock woman whose mum tragically passed away after battling cancer twice is taking on a charity challenge in her honour.

Cath Wilson's mum Irene Wilson sadly died in June 2021 after a lengthy battle with cancer that started in her lungs in 2019 and spread to her brain the following year.

The much-loved mum also battled breast cancer 17 years ago, however made a full recovery and was able to live a fulfilling life looking after Cath and her siblings Clare and Peter.

Irene first found out she had breast cancer whilst doing a sponsored fast for the Ardgowan Hospice Access centre as Cath's dad, Les, was being treated for throat cancer at the time.

Almost two decades later, the 63-year-old was in the care of the local hospice during her final days.

Her family say they are 'forever grateful' for the superb care she received.

Now, to pay tribute to her much-missed mum, Cath is gearing up to take on the Cancer Research Pretty Muddy event on June 17, the second anniversary of Irene's passing.

The 25-year-old told the Tele: "Up until now I've not felt ready to do something to honour my mum as I think in doing so it feels very final.

"My mum was one of those people who was born to be a mum, we felt so incredibly lucky to have her, especially as we got a second chance.

"I was much younger the first time around, but in 2019 when we were told her cancer was treatable, not curable, we were sort of better prepared.

"It was a tough one to take and when it spread to her brain she lost most of her cognitive abilities and she deteriorated massively.

"She had a really fulfilling life, so we are so grateful we got to have as much time with her as we did."

Cath's challenge will see her take on a 5k obstacle course where she will crawl through mud pits and enjoy other fun-filled activities in Strathclyde Country Park.

She said: "My mum, sister, aunt and I all used to take part in the Race for Life, so it seems right I'm doing this for my mum.

"We've always donated to Cancer Research UK due to our family's longstanding history with cancer.

"It felt like it was meant to be when I realised it was happening on my mum's anniversary.

"I hope by doing it I'll make her proud."

As well as having her sights set on raising funds for Cancer Research UK, the EE worker wants to thank the local hospice for their support.

Cath added: "We are forever indebted to Ardgowan Hospice, my mum passed away there and they couldn't have been more amazing.

"The support they have offered both my parents over the years is incomparable,

"They are absolutely brilliant at what they do and we cannot thank them enough for looking after my mum so well."

To donate to Cath's fundraiser, visit bit.ly/3KlESlp