A breast cancer survivor is starring in an inspiring new awareness campaign for Cancer Research UK, which aims to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.

Seema Jaya Sharma, 35, of Pembroke Road, Seven Kings, is the face of one of the charity’s striking new adverts, which highlights the power of research in beating the disease.

She can be seen in national newspapers and magazines, declaring: “I’m alive today because of research”.

The mum-of-two knows just how crucial new discoveries and breakthroughs are to help people like her survive.

She said: “I was shocked when I was diagnosed with cancer but knew I had to fight it. I was fit and only 32 and I didn’t expect to get cancer. But, thanks to research, I am still here.

“I owe my life to treatment developed by the charity’s scientists so I want to do everything I can to urge people to fight back against the disease.”

Seema, who lives with her daughter, Shanti, six, and son, Kalvin, 14, underwent a lumpectomy, mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy and she is now in remission.

She has gone on to write, produce and record a song, Alive, about her experience and gives talks in local schools about cancer.

She said: “The posters have been everywhere and I felt really honoured to be asked to take part.

“It all started because my boss wrote to the charity to tell them about my song and I was involved in the TV show, Stand Up For Cancer. I feel so happy to be involved.

“The word everyone keeps using is proud – they are proud of what I have done. And I’ve had people tell me they have begun to donate to CRUK as a result of seeing the ad.”

She added: “I’ve got my life back, now it’s cancer’s turn to be afraid. Success stories like mine would not be possible without the charity’s life-saving work.”