Leukaemia patient launches event

Monika Maslak said she was enjoying the day

A leukaemia patient who owes her survival to a bone marrow transplant has been launching a major fundraising event in her town.

It is the first time Monika Maslak, 20, from Stratford, Warwickshire, has been able to make an appearance at the town's annual dragon boat races.

This year's event raised more than £35,000 for the Anthony Nolan Trust.

It provides life-saving donors for patients needing a bone marrow transplant.

Ms Maslak, who was diagnosed with leukaemia at the age of 15, was given a bone marrow transplant three years ago and still needs some treatment in hospital.

She said getting Sunday's event under way was an "absolute pleasure".