A POOLE mum left in a wheelchair by cancer is planning to complete a remarkable fight back by completing this summer’s Race for Life.

Dee Bayliss, 47, stunned doctors when she started walking with the aid of a stick just weeks after a major operation in December.

The mother-of-two vowed she would never “sit down and wait to die” and plans to complete the 5K event in Poole Park next month.

“I spent several weeks at the start of this year having to lay flat, and I then needed a wheelchair whilst recovering,” said Dee, from Canford Heath.

“It takes a lot to get me down. Life is too short to sit around. Every day is a gift.”

Dee was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007.

After a mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy it was confirmed in December the disease had spread to her hip and leg.

A metal rod had to be inserted to strengthen her shattered bones.

“I ran the 5K in 2009 and I will walk it this year with the aid of a stick,” said Dee.

“But my big challenge is to run over the finish line.”

Dee, who lives with husband Chris and children James, 23, and Sarah, 21, was forced her to give up her post as a teaching assistant for children with spe cial needs at Canford Heath First School.

“That was one of the hardest things I have had to do,” she said.

“I loved it with such a passion I would have done it for nothing”.

But the big-hearted mum has now turned her attention to fundraising to help others.

“Cancer doesn’t have to mean your life is finished,” she said.

“When I am in pain it reminds me I am still alive”.

The Poole Race for Life takes place on June 26.

The morning event is full but places are still available in the afternoon. Go to raceforlife.org or call 0871 641 1111.