Gold Coast local and cancer survivor Tara Langeveld is warming up to take part in this year’s Gold Coast Airport Marathon to fight back against a disease that takes too much.

Mrs Langeveld knows first-hand the deep pain and emotion that comes with losing a loved one to cancer, and was motivated to enter this year’s event after losing her sister to secondary liver cancer, at age 40.

In 2012, just two years later, Tara was diagnosed with a rare form of soft tissue cancer.

Now in good health, and inspired by her sister’s bravery Tara said she will complete the Suncorp Bank 5.7km Challenge and continue to show her support for those who have been touched by the disease.

Mrs Langeveld has put together a marathon team, Team Langey Fighting Cancer, which will see over 15 family and friends donning team shirts and running with a purpose.

“Cancer has unfortunately been a big part our lives, my dad and father-in-law have also recently been diagnosed with prostate cancer, but we inspire each other to push on and not be defined by cancer,” Tara said.

Tara said she was motivated to enter this year’s Gold Coast Airport Marathon with knowledge Cancer Council Queensland is again the major beneficiary of the annual event.

“Being able to participate in the marathon and raise funds to support Cancer Council Queensland’s vital work in cancer research, education and support programs only cemented our team’s desire to enter,” Tara said.

“It doesn’t matter if you run or walk, it’s not about that, it’s about getting everyone together, honouring those we’ve lost to the disease and working towards a cancer free future.”

Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift encouraged more Queenslanders to take part in the 2014 Gold Coast Airport Marathon – for all Queenslanders affected by cancer.

“With your help, Cancer Council Queensland can continue to fund life-saving research and provide support for people affected by cancer,” Katie said.

“By raising funds online or making a donation to Cancer Council Queensland you are helping to create a cancer free future.”

To take part in the popular annual event in support of Cancer Council Queensland and show your support for Queenslanders affected by cancer, please visit www.goldcoastmarathon.com.au, selecting CCQ as charity of choice, or www.cancerqld.org.au.

To support Tara Langeveld and Team Langey Fighting for Cancer, visit www.icanforcancer.org.au and search the term ‘Team Langey Fighting Cancer’.

For more information about Cancer Council Queensland visit www.cancerqld.org.au or call Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20.

Cancer Council Queensland is an independent, community-based charity, the achievements of which are made possible by the generosity of Queenslanders.