A CANCER survivor from Erskine will be thinking of her late mum when she takes to the catwalk tomorrow for a charity fashion show.

Lorraine Coyle McLaren, 47, has been chosen to strut her stuff in front of hundreds of people at the Breast Cancer Care Scotland event.

And it is sure to be an emotional occasion for Lorraine, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2017 and finished her treatment a year ago.

READ MORE: Play challenges pupils across Scotland on knife crime issue

She told The Gazette: “I used to read about all these people who were taking part in the fashion show and thought how remarkable and inspirational they were. Their stories touched me but I never thought that I would be speaking about myself.

“My mum and sister had previously been diagnosed with breast cancer but you never think it is going to happen to you. I was unsure at first if I had a lump or not, as I didn’t know how a lump should feel.

“I asked my sister to check, as she would know how it felt, and she believed there was something and I should get it checked.

“I went through chemotherapy, mastectomy and radiotherapy. Chemotherapy was gruelling but, with the support of my partner Shelley, my rock, who helped me stay strong and made me laugh every day, we got through it together.”

Lorraine proposed three days before her first chemotherapy session and the couple, who have been together for 17 years, were married in January.

It was the perfect start to a new year but devastating news was just around the corner.

The Gazette:

Lorraine with her late mum, Helen

While Lorraine was undergoing treatment, her mum Helen’s cancer returned.

Sadly, Helen passed away at her home in Holms Crescent, Erskine, in July, aged 76.

Tomorrow’s (Thursday)  show will see Lorraine, who now lives in Glenboig, take to the catwalk at the Glasgow Hilton alongside 23 other people who have had a breast cancer diagnosis.

Lorraine said: “Its been a really tough 18 months but taking part in the Breast Cancer Care fashion show this year is something wonderful to look forward to.

READ MORE: Fuming footballers show red card to crooks who stole their strips

“During and after treatment, it took me a long time to feel good inside and out, so I can’t wait to step onto the catwalk in front of everyone, including my family and friends, feeling wonderful and showing how far I have come.

“I will be thinking of my mum every step of the way. It will be an incredible event and a great way to raise money for Breast Cancer Care.”

To book tickets, call 0345 077 1892 or email theshowscotland@breastcancercare.org.uk.