A WOMAN who was facing death is to run a charity race.

And Philippa Carter’s efforts are all the more remarkable considering she has undergone a gruelling double-lung transplant to beat the disease which could have killed her.

Mrs Carter, 24, of Mirfield, will be running in the Cystic Fibrosis Trust Yorkshire 10K on September 14 to raise funds to help beat cystic fibrosis - the disease which badly affected her early life.

The run is through the grounds of Newby Hall outside Ripon and Philippa’s participation in the event is remarkable considering four years ago she could hardly walk unaided as cystic fibrosis was severely damaging her lungs.

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease and only half the people with the condition live to celebrate their 40th birthday. It causes the internal organs, especially the lungs and digestive system, to become clogged with thick, sticky mucus, resulting in chronic infections and inflammation of the lungs.

Philippa said she feels like she has been on quite a journey to be able to enter the event.

“Thanks to the generosity of my donor and their family I am now able to live life to the full.

“In May 2010 I was told I needed a double lung transplant and my health was rapidly declining. After five very long months on the transplant waiting list and four false calls I finally received the gift of life. Thanks to the kindness and generosity of a stranger I am here today and have a second chance to live. I feel so lucky to be alive and can’t wait to raise money for a cause I feel so passionate about.

“I exercise to keep fit and maintain my excellent lung function. I have set myself challenges – I hope this 10K run for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust is the first of many. I want to show people what an amazing outcome a transplant can have for someone. Everyone needs to sign up to the organ donor register and tell their family their wishes so more people with cystic fibrosis get the transplant they need. Too many people are dying on the waiting list.”

Pat Kilpatrick, the Cystic Fibrosis Trust’s regional Fundraising Manager, said Philippa’s story was one of hope and courage.

“One of three people with cystic fibrosis die on the transplant waiting list. That’s why we’re campaigning for a national lung allocation system. Philippa is one of the lucky ones and we are thrilled she can support us with this family event with a 10K or the 2K fun run.

“The timing of this event is special particularly as this year sees the 50th anniversary of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, but we’re not celebrating but redoubling our fundraising efforts! The average life expectancy for someone with cystic fibrosis is 40. We are hoping that with challenge events like this, we can fund research into better treatment for those with the condition. We are committed to improving the lives of those with cystic fibrosis so that they can celebrate their 50th birthday and beyond.”

To support Philippa visit: www.justgiving.com/PhilippaAndRyan/