The 15 stone Ballerina

My Inspiration! It's a long story, but please read xx We all know the dangers of Cancer, but it's when it hits a loved one or close friend that it becomes very real. In February 2016, my Sister, Debbie, received the news no-one wants to hear. As a tissue viability specialist nurse, Debbie is more used to caring for people than being the patient. She has always looked after herself by way of diet and lifestyle and so it seems so cruel, but we all know this disease often knows no boundaries. The shock and devastation is more than I ever imagined and every conceivable thought raced through our minds. Thankfully there was very good option of lengthy, comprehensive treatment, but this was only following serious surgery and reconstruction. To her credit (and this certainly helped her family and friends) Debbie has never been anything other than positive and driven to fight and, so far, is doing well after several bouts of both surgery and very specific medication. Personally, at the time I felt pretty helpless. Other than support her and be there when needed, what could I do?? I was unable to fight it for her!! I tried to learn all about the type of cancer from which she was suffering and went to treatment with her so I knew, as much as possible, what she was going through. Going to the cancer centre (a fabulous facility for Stoke on Trent) rocked me, but also created tremendous admiration for all that goes on there. So many types, so many patients of all ages, so many stories like ours and such brilliant staff. Understanding more of what it means to be going through this huge trauma did help and Debbie and I had several conversations which maybe we couldn't do before. What did become abundantly clear was just how strong she was and the mentality needed to fight and be strong day after day. In November, 8 months after Debbie's diagnosis, a, then, work colleague, who I had known for over 15 years, received the same dreadful news. Jane had virtually the same diagnosis and also needed severe surgery before embarking on heavy bouts of treatment. Although I was far from an expert, I did feel I could offer Jane genuine encouragement on what terrific facilities existed and how she could take on Cancer and win. Like Debbie, Jane has a wonderful family and network of friends and she too has found tremendous strength in facing up to surgery, comprehensive treatment and the various side effects. I was glad I could maybe help Jane in a very tiny way, but again was conscious of how we need to kick this disease into touch. So.... Cancer is happening right now, which is why I’m raising money right now for Cancer Research UK. There’s no time to lose! On April 22nd 2018 I shall be running the Virgin London Marathon on behalf of Cancer Research UK. I'm built more for comfort than speed and have also the extra humiliation of being dressed as a ballerina. It's all about exposure (hopefully not too much!!) and awareness and so a bit of personal shaming is well worth it and won't do me much harm. I have needed to commit to raising a significant amount and so need all the help I can get. I'll do the training and squeeze into a tutu, but in turn would ask for support from my family friends and colleagues. The pain of training for and then running a marathon is a grain of sand compared to what Cancer sufferers experience. Any and all amounts count. I appreciate there are numerous great causes and can only hope that my story has resonated and touched you in some way. THANK YOU for reading. Donate to my page today and help bring forward the day when all cancers are cured. Donating through this page is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with Cancer Research UK.