Woman's 10k run in memory of match-making best friend

Elizabeth Marshall (45) crossed the finish line in 1hr 20mins and 33 deg C heat as a tribute to Mel Farrell-Rhodes.

Matchmaker Mel (41) lived with aplastic anaemia from age eight and was diagnosed with a rare condition called myelodysplasia anaemia last year, which needed a blood stem cell donation.

Blood cancer charity DKMS backed the #matchforMel campaign and a donor was found but despite this Mel passed away.

Elizabeth, of Wickersley, said: “I wanted to run for DKMS in memory of my lovely and so-very-much missed mate.

“Having been friends for so many years, I was keen to run in her memory and help raise awareness of blood cancer and disorders. 

“Mel and her family were passionate about encouraging more people to register as potential blood stem cell donors. I would urge anyone to take the first steps and please register.

“Taking the first steps to register is so easy and you may end up helping to save a life.”

New donors were encouraged to come forward as part of Monday’s DKMS World Blood Cancer Day.

A charity spokesman said: “If you are aged between 17 and 55 and in general good health, you can register online for your home swab kit at dkms.org.uk.”