Thank you for visiting my fundraising page. Please take a moment to read our story...

My sister Mandy was married to Nic for 25 years and they have two wonderful teenage daughters, Kelly and Nikki. She's always been a wonderful sister, listening to my problems and not telling my Mum and Dad when I put Daddy-Long-Legs in her bed (although that was some time ago). She's just one of those lovely people you meet sometimes... you'd never know we are related.

Last August Mandy discovered a lump on her breast that was found to be breast cancer. The lump was removed, but analysis showed that the cancer had spread further than the surrounding tissue and so Mandy had her lymph nodes removed and had a mastectomy. Mandy's positive attitude encouraged us all and continued throughout six months of the most aggressive chemotherapy and 25 sessions of radiotherapy. We were very happy when the treatment ended and looked forward to Mandy getting better and stronger, but the improvement we longed for just didn't happen.

We were told that the treatments hadn't worked and that the cancer had spread to Mandy's liver. The cancer was now incurable and any treatment would be to prolong her life and make her comfortable. We were all devastated, but still Mandy remained positive.

Mandy died at home on 21st November 2007 amongst her loving family.  She was thoughtful, loving and courageous to the end.

Mandy had the very best medical care from some wonderful doctors and nurses. The treatment was prompt and aggressive. As Mandy’s condition deteriorated the wonderful nurses of the Macmillan Charity came in to help Nic, Kelly and Nikki look after her. Their wonderful support meant so much to everyone because it meant that Mandy could stay at home, with the people she loved and who love her. It's hard to imagine what more could have been done, but sometimes doing everything just isn't enough.

 What we are doing...

Mandy’s husband, our sister, some friends and I are going to trek the Inca Trail in Peru in June with a view to raising a whole load of money for breast cancer care (administered through the UHNS Charitable Fund). We’re all paying for our trips ourselves, so every penny you commit will go to this worthy cause.

We will be taking a particularly difficult route from Cusco to Machu Picchu (which is takes us to an altitude of over 4000 meters) and, as if spending 7 days walking up a mountain wasn't hard enough, we'll be doing it without everything that would make such a journey bearable: 
                            Beer
                            Xbox
                            Chocolate
                            Toilets
                            A wash!

Those of you who know me will understand that this is not how I like to spend my time and is unlikely to be enjoyable for me, or those who have to listen to me moan for 7 days.

Please give generously! 

Cancer is a terrible disease that ruins lives. We are aiming to raise £50K between us for a great cause that touches so many people.  Whilst this may not be enough to pay for a new hospital wing, it’ a significant contribution that would really help the UHNS to continue to offer the help and support that makes such a difference to people during terrible times.

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: University Hospital of North Staffordshire Charitable Fund 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.

Your contribution would be greatly appreciated.

Yours in gratitude,

Stuart