A CANCER survivor from Oxford is encouraging others to leave a donation to charity in their will.

Barbara Gardiner’s life changed after she discovered a sore on one of her feet that was diagnosed as leukaemia in August 1999.

Despite going for numerous tests the 64-year-old said it was misdiagnosed until she had a blood test.

Mum-of-four Mrs Gardiner added: “Being diagnosed with cancer turned my life upside down.

“It was a terrible shock and I convinced myself I wouldn’t be around to see my grandchildren grow up but I’m happy to say I’m still here.”

Leukaemia is a malignant cancer of the blood cells and bone marrow that occurs most often in adults older than 55, and is the most common cancer in children younger than 15.

Mrs Gardiner, who lives in Cowley, is now urging people in Oxfordshire to help future generations by including a “legacy gift” to Cancer Research UK in their will.

The retired Rose Hill Primary School teacher, who has four children and nine grandchildren, said a legacy donation can provide hope for patients and families dealing with cancer.

Mrs Gardiner, whose first great-grandchild was born in July, added: “By leaving a gift in their will – no matter how big or small the donation – people in Oxfordshire can give many more families like mine the incredible gift of hope.”

Helen Johnstone, Cancer Research UK spokesperson for Oxfordshire, said: “ There are more than 200 types of cancer and we won’t stop until we find cures for them all.

“The more research we are able to do, the sooner that day will come and that’s why we urgently need support .”

Legacy gifts make up more than a third of Cancer Research UK’s funding, and play a significant part in its ground-breaking advances.

For further information visit cancerresearchuk.org