TURNBULL WINS THE RACE THAT COUNTS THE MOST

Hannah Turnbull didn't move to Toronto for the sole purpose of joining the cross-country team at George Brown College.

As for winning races, if it happens - so be it.

From Hamilton, the 22-year old graduate of Hill Park Secondary determined she wanted to continue her post secondary education down the highway.

So, it started at the University of Toronto's Mississauga campus where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Commerce. Then, keeping with the business theme, time for George Brown where she is in the Marketing Program.

She's also the recipient of a prestigious Queen Elizabeth II scholarship for excellence in academics.

But toss all of her success aside for now.

That's because Turnbull won something more important than her education or a race or an award. If you happen to see her race, or walk through a hallway, she'll gladly accept a high five.

She was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in June of 2012.

And now, the great news, that Turnbull is doing well and in remission.

"There was a time when I thought my life was in danger - but I kept a positive attitude," she recalled. "I figured, how can this be happening to a young person and why me?"

Turnbull thought periods of fatigue were attributed to working too hard. After being told to get blood tests, Turnbull was instructed to see her family doctor.

"They said 'right away' and that shocked me," she said. "I did what I was told, my parents were very concerned, then went to a cancer clinic in Hamilton and the treatments worked. I caught (the cancer) early."

Turnbull had surgery in August of 2012 and has been recuperating since then. So, much so, that she was given the go-ahead to get back to her educational plans - and physical fitness. For her, it's being a member of the Huskies cross-country team.

"I know many people take health for granted," she said. "Then, when you get sick, your mind starts thinking about lots of things."

"I am so grateful because I've been told that I am now in perfect health - and my family and friends stuck with me through the ordeal and mean the world to me."

Turnbull, who hasn't been serious about distance running since her days in elementary school, ran in two races for George Brown.

At the Fanshawe Invitational in London, she placed 51st in the 5 km race timed in 27 minutes, 50 seconds. One week later, it was 63rd at the Redeemer Invitational held in Ancaster. Her time: 30:49.

Turnbull has nothing to prove on the cross-country circuit.

She's already won the gold medal in survival.

Source: George Brown College

Photo Credit: Thomas Chung