A special cancer fundraising event has been launched in memory of Jade Goody on the first anniversary of her death.
The commemorative Race for Life event will take place in the reality star's adopted home of Essex, and Jade's bridesmaids are calling on women to take part.
Jade died on Mother's Day, 22nd March 2009, after a six month battle with cervical cancer.
The 27-year-old's tragic story had a profound impact on women of the same age as figures have revealed the number of young women requesting smear tests shot up by a third following Jade's plight.
This led to an extra 37,000 women in their late twenties having smear tests outside the screening programme and a 12 per cent increase in the total number of women being screened.
Bridesmaid and best friend Jennifer Smith said: “It’s been a year since Jade died and we all miss her everyday.
"We know that Jade’s cancer battle raised awareness of cervical cancer, especially among younger women, and we’re eager to ensure that more people are educated on the signs, symptoms and risks of cancer."
Director of health information at Cancer Research UK Sara Hiom added: "Not only has Jade’s story given women a stark reminder of the importance of going for screening when invited, it has also empowered them to go and ask for advice if they think that something may be wrong.
"This huge increase in women being screened outside the programme proves that women are now more aware of cervical cancer and the importance of smear tests – her legacy will save lives.
"But importantly, this number also includes tests initiated by their doctor, showing that Jade’s story also brought this disease to the front of health professionals’ minds too."
Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life series raises around £60m a year for vital research into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all types of cancer.
The special 'Race for Life in memory of Jade Goody' will take place in Basildon on Sunday 6th June, the day after what would have been Jade's 29th birthday.
Jade’s bridesmaids, Jennifer Smith, Kate Jackson, Charlene Hull and Caroline Roberts will open the event with a memorial speech followed by a two minute silence before the race.
Lancashire is hosting a number of Race for Life events throughout June and July. For more information or to enter, visit www.raceforlife.org or call 0871 641 1111.
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