I lost my mum to ovarian cancer on Thursday 3rd May 2012.  She was diagnosed in February 2012 and despite an initial positive prognosis, we learnt that it was terminal in late April.  

Those of you who knew Marilyn know how special she was but many of you are unlikely to have had the opportunity to experience the bravery and determination that she exhibited during her illness. She spend most of her last weeks making sure that those closest to her were prepared for life without her, which was testament to the kindness that she showed throughout her life, both to those she loved and those she barely knew.  

In recognition of my mum's resolve, Kate and I have decided to take part in this year's Shine in London on 29 September 2012.  Shine is Cancer Research UK's night time walking event where entrants try to complete either a half-marathon or marathon against the beautiful backdrop of the London skyline.  Kate and I will be attempting the half-marathon with all donations we raise going directly and specifically to research on Ovarian cancer.  

Whilst Kate and I have seen first hand the devastating effects that Ovarian cancer can have on families, we didn't realise how prevalent it is.  It's the fifth most common cancer in UK women, with around 130 women every week being told they have the disease. The good news is that since the 1970s, five-year survival rates for ovarian cancer have doubled but 4000 women, like my mum, still lose their life to the disease every year.  We know that she would have wanted something good to come out of her illness and if, through fundrasing, Kate and I can help Cancer Research beat this disease, I know that my mum would be proud.   

On the night, Kate and I will also be walking for all the nurses who cared for Marilyn so well throughout her long stays in hospital.  They were kind and compassionate to the end and we will be eternally grateful for the way they looked after her.  

Please help us to recognise my mum's spirit and help beat Ovarian cancer by donating what you can. 

Craig and Kate x