A Midlands journalist who was diagnosed with cancer seven months ago has raised nearly a thousand pounds through a charity run.

Lynette Pinchess, a features writer at Northcliffe daily the Nottingham Post for 21 years, will take part in Cancer Research UK’s Race For Life at Nottingham Victoria Embankment on Sunday with daughter Chloë ,13.

The day, which sees thousands of women wearing pink and running 5k, also marks the fourth anniversary of her dad’s death from cancer.

It was after her husband Gregg felt a lump on her neck that Lynette discovered she had a rare form of thyroid cancer. This led to the removal of a two inch tumour by surgeons, who also removed her thyroid and some of the lymph glands.

Said Lynette: “It was so hard telling my family, friends and work colleagues I had cancer. Somehow it was easier texting or emailing ‘I’ve got cancer ‘  rather than saying the words.

“Patients I’ve written about have compared the bombshell to being punched in the stomach, being hit by a speeding juggernaut or swept up in a tornado.

“Whatever metaphor you choose, it is one hell of a shock. I was feeling fit and healthy – blissfully unaware of what was going on in my body.”

Lynette Pinchess, centre, who has battled cancer, with husband Gregg Pinchess and daughter Chloe.

Lynette, who went back to work in January but continues to have regular check-ups at hospital and sessions with a psychologist, said she has got through the illness with the support of husband Gregg, daughter Chloë and mum Joan.

Added Lynette, who has raised £900 so far: “The Race for Life is such a moving day, full of emotion, remembrance and spirit.”

Thyroid cancer is a disease that can be caused by radiation and is common among Chernobyl children. But it’s rare in the UK. Out of every 1,000 cancers diagnosed, fewer than ten affect the thyroid.

One sort of thyroid cancer is easy to treat but Lynnette’s was a more complex type of tumour. Only two or three are seen at the Royal Derby Hospital every year.

Deputy editor of the Derby Evening Telegraph Neil White is also drumming up support for Cancer Research UK following the death of his sister-in-law Karen on Monday.

Neil’s wife Andi and daughter Catherine are taking part in the Race for Life in Nottingham on Saturday and Neil has collected over £100 from colleagues.

Said Neil: “I am amazed by two things, first the generosity of people at the paper, and secondly the amount of stories I have heard from people who have given money.”

Karen was 53 when she died. Her two daughters and Andi’s other sister will now be joining them in the race on Saturday.