IT has been a long road to recovery for breast cancer patient, Chantelle Prince, since her diagnosis last year. Over the past few month she has had to undergo surgery, chemotherapy as well as radiation therapy to battle the deadly disease.

And now that the end of her treatment is finally in sight the Durban North mother is set on raising awareness through a Boot Camp for Breast Cancer fundraiser in April.

“Last week Thursday I finished my last radiation session. All that is left now is reconstruction surgery in May,” she said proudly.

“Before this I finished my chemotherapy in December. It was the hardest thing I have ever had to do and then in January I felt like a brand new person. I want to share that with other people while raising awareness,” she said.

According to Prince, the boot camp will involve a whole series of exercises (squats, jumping jacks and lunges) as a total body workout to help people get fit and healthy.

“We encourage men and women, young and old to take part. It is all about having fun,” she said.

The aim of the event is primarily to assist The Pink Phoenix Foundation in its efforts to initiate a cancer support group for survivors.

Prince urged fellow cancer patients and survivors to try and stay positive and to focus on what they wish to achieve. “I try and enjoy every small moment and not to take it for granted,” she added.

Last year Prince’s brave battle inspired a 5km walk/run fundraiser for The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA). The event was organised by fellow Durban North resident and CANSA volunteer, Claire de Sylva.