My mum and I are both running half marathons to raise funds for her new charity 'Something To Look Forward To", a social action website for people with cancer and their families to access a variety of gifts generously donated by people and companies.
My mum was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007. During and following surgery and treatment, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy, my mum and step dad found that small treats such as a meal out, a night in a hotel or a day out with the family, was an essential positive to think about and provided some brief respite from the relentless slog of the hospital environment.
In the summer of 2013 my mum was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer which had spread elsewhere. Another course of chemotherapy began and was followed by maintenance treatment. My mum now receives ongoing treatment for this incurable but treatable condition.
In 2015, using their combined experience and skills in the charity world; PR; Marketing and IT, my parents took the decision to start the process of launching ‘Something To Look Forward To’ as a registered charity and not for profit company limited. I am so proud of them.
Please sponsor my mum and I to run a combined distance of over 26 miles. Your donation will provide people with cancer and their families the opportunity to have some positive time away from their disease and nightmare they are living through. You will be helping cancer patients achieve some respite and the chance to focus on relationships, create positive memories and have some quality fun time together. For many, these "life's little luxuries" are unaffordable due to the financial burden of the illness.
If you would rather donate a gift personally or through your company such as a restaurant meal, hotel stay, beauty treatment, tickets for events and attractions then please contact the charity directly at fiona@somethingtolookforwardto.org.uk
P.S I'm aiming to run the half marathon in less than 2 hours!
THANKS!