I am raising money for Exeter Leukemia Fund as my Dad, Roger Willcocks was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma in August 2011. He underwent a stem cell transplant and many different chemotherapy regimes and managed to stay very positive throughout the course of his treatments and carried on working for as long as he could until in May 2013 when his back collapsed and he was paralysed from the waist down. He spent 18 weeks in hospital and 6 weeks in the Mardon Rehabilitation Centre in Exeter and with the help of physiotherapists and occupational therapists he managed to walk again with the aid of crutches. Even though times were tough dad still managed to stay relatively cheerful and was his normal jokey self, a true inspiration. Then in January this year we were devastated when Dads consultant told us that the chemotherapy wasnt working. Dad fought so bravely but sadly lost his battle on 23rd February, he peacefully passed away in Yarty ward at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital. The nurses and doctors at the hospital were amazing throughout Dads illness and his stays in hospital and the brilliant work by elf contributed greatly to this. 

I have taken this piece from the charities website that explains briefly what they do and are about:

Life changing conditions such as leukaemia, lymphoma and other blood disorders not only affect the individual but their families and those who are nearest to them including friends and work colleagues. We believe that patients across the South West deserve the best care, equipment and research.

Anyone can be diagnosed and we support everyone from 16 years old, who is referred to the Haematology Centre at the RD&E Hospital or the North Devon Hospital and their loved ones. Patients are referred from many areas of Devon and the South West and with their families often span an even greater distance.

Over the years ELF has listened to patients and their loved ones along with health professionals to develop and meet current and future needs. However, there is still much to do and your support will help us to achieve.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

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