Friends and co-workers of a Fort St. John woman diagnosed with cancer are rallying behind her as she takes on the biggest challenge of her life.
Described as an incredible person by those who know her, Mannie Lenz was given the news no one wants to hear earlier this year.
"Mannie has a love for life," says Gators Gym owner Terri Stanley, where Lenz worked until recently. "She's been here from almost from the beginning, nine years. She has a huge heart."
Lenz is also known for her infectious smile.
"She's always happy," adds gym member Brent Morgan. "She can change the mood that you're feeling that day. She's always upbeat, positive. Doesn't matter what she's going through in her life."
That, too, one of the characteristics Laurie Cardinal admires about her friend.
"She's the type of person that always puts others first. That's the kind of person that she is."
If anyone can beat cancer, Stanley believes it's Lenz.
"She's definitely a fighter."
Those close to her held a barbecue this past Tuesday raising money to help cover some of the medical costs she'll, likely, be facing in the months ahead.
Cardinal says anyone who wasn't able to make it to the fundraiser can drop a donation off at the gym.
