On the 10th May 2021 my dad Hugh collapsed suddenly and on the 13th May we were given a diagnosis of acute multiple myeloma, a rare and lesser known cancer. He received several life saving blood transfusions and emergency treatment at Winchester hospital, for which we are very grateful for.

The initial news was a real shock to our family, it felt like a sledgehammer blow and shortly after returning home from hospital, he also broke his arm. Although, multiple myeloma is not curable, it is treatable and dad has started intensive radiotherapy and chemotherapy over summer.

During this challenging time, Myeloma charity has provided us with information, advice and support every step of the way.

My dad has always been into fitness and scooped some impressive body building titles and wins. In his 30’s he had a head injury which was a set back, but he overcame the challenge, relearning to walk and talk, as well as graduating with an English Literature degree.  This is another challenge, but as a family we are determined to raise awareness about early detection of Myeloma and raise funds for other people affected by Myeloma now and in the future.

Although, I’m not quite the athlete my dad was, we would like to raise funds for Myeloma charity to support their vital work. 

During the month of September I will continue being part of my dads support crew, as well as taking part In the 20 for 20 fundraising challenge. I will complete one hour of yoga daily for 20 consecutive days, ending each daily session, with a challenging yoga pose. 

It would mean the world to my family and bring a huge smile to my Dad, if you could contribute to our fundraising campaign or share our story, to help raise awareness about Myeloma.

Your donation will help people like my Dad and our family, make sure we don’t face myeloma alone! As the leading funder of myeloma research in the UK, they have an ongoing commitment to investing in vital and groundbreaking research and treatment. 

COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on Myeloma UK's fundraising events and activities right across the UK; many have been put on hold or cancelled altogether. Myeloma UK has joined a group of 20 lesser known cancer charities who together, will raise awareness and tackle the impact of COVID-19 has had on cancer diagnosis and treatment, through the 20 for 20 fundraising initiative - a 20 day fundraising challenge!

All funds raised will be donated to Myeloma UK and I will share progress with photos and my fitness tracker.