Thank you for visiting my fundraising page.

It was a great shock to be diagnosed with Leukaemia 51/2 years ago; a great shock for me and for my family; a great shock to have the control taken out of my life.

I was a fit, busy person and there seemed to be no explanation for my illness.  I was 37, very much in love with my husband, Kevin, and mum to Emma (15) and David (13).

The RVI in Newcastle was home for about 6 months while I was treated and cared for by truly wonderful nurses and doctors.  "Hello to everyone on ward 8 and 6A".  My family loved and encouraged me through it all and special friends kept us going with their thoughtfulness and prayers. 

The treatment was debilitating and there were times when I thought I might not make it.  Building my strength up afterwards was slow.  I had a year off work and have had to rebuild my life.

Gradually I have got back into walking, swimming, even skiing but I haven't done any running since school - a very long time ago - so the GNR is a big challenge - challenges are good.

My daughter, Emma did the GNR last year and it made me wonder if I could have a go - so training commenced!  3 pairs of badly fitting trainers later we are both determined to run for Leukaemia Research with the Banana Army.  We will be celebrating my 5 years "Remission" (how I hate that word - somtimes it sounds so temporary, but playing the "Be Glad Game" I am GLAD to be in REMISSION because it means I am WELL).

Although I still get scared about my health, I am so thankful to have been brought through.  Not everyone is as lucky as me.  I appreciate life so much more.  Every day matters.  Small delights matter.  I don't look too far into the future because it is NOW that matters.

Hopefully Emma and I will raise money that will "Make a Difference" and help other people like me to "Get Through".  Then maybe they can experience the same second chance that I have had and know how fantastic life is!

Please dig deep and sponsor me online.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Leukaemia Research will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

So please sponsor me now!

Many thanks for your support and God Bless

Rachel