My Story
According to Cancer Research UK, someone is diagnosed with cancer every 2 minutes. It's everywhere and bound to touch everyone at some point in their lives either directly or indirectly. Its such a very cruel, truly awful disease. I know too well, having lost my mum, dad and sister all to different forms of cancer in the space of 6 years between 2017 and 2023 . I've watched the horrible suffering and pain as I've cared for them and I've held their hand on the roller-coaster of dark emotions of false hopes and crippling fear. I'm left with such a deep sadness and loneliness of losing my family I grew up with to this horrid disease and I hate the devastating heartbreak of others; my sister at just 45 leaving behind her incredible husband Neil and two absolutely brilliant children Annabel (13) and Patrick (10). But I've also seen the stoicism, humour and unbelievable grit to fight back. It's humbling beyond words. If my mum, dad and sister could all find that strength I can too. So, for them, I'm running the London Marathon on the 21st April 2024. I'm going to run 26.2 miles to raise money for Cancer Research UK. This charity has made a huge impact on cancer, such as doubling breast cancer survival in 50 years and developing the HPV vaccine expected to prevent 90% of cervical cancers. Every single donation adds up to fund science that really does help to prevent cancer, ensure earlier detection and provide better treatments. These can make so much difference to people's lives and those around them. At best other people's mums, dad's and siblings will survive but even "living well with cancer" is a game changer. So it's time to hit the pavement and trails and tracks, get the miles under my feet and take on this challenge. I feel privileged to have good health to run so I want to use it as a positive for others. I know the training and marathon itself will be be far from easy but I'll remember the strength of my mum, my dad and my sister and use that to keep me putting one foot in front of the other. Please donate you anything you can. The cost of a take away coffee from everyone would soon add up. And if you see me out running I always love a high five and a whoop! Thank you x
