Cancer is a heart breaking disease that has affected the majority of us in some way, shape or form.

I hate running and I despise cancer. These two don't usually go hand in hand but in my case they are closely linked.

Unfortunately I lost my aunt, my hero in 2011 from ovarian cancer. Seeing her deteriorating from an independent, strong and charismatic woman was heart breaking. I decided to run a half marathon in 2012 in memory of Margaret and annoyingly broke my foot in several places a week later. I trained for a few weeks before hand and hadn't even heard of running socks!

In June 2017, my family were given the heart breaking news that my uncle who was like a second Dad to me had incurable stomach cancer. What was thought to be heartburn to then an ulcer was actually cancer that was slowly taking over his body. Unfortunately Ronald has now lost his fight.

I am very much like both my aunt and uncle: stubborn, strong willed, independent and a little crazy! My way of dealing with this devastating news was to set myself a challenge. I would run a marathon.

The training and the event is not going to be pleasant and to put it bluntly, I am dreading it. The thought of having to run 26.2 miles makes me feel sick BUT this is nothing in comparison to what my heroes have been through. The pain I will feel is nothing compared to what so many have to go through on a daily basis because of this disease.

I hope that not only will I raise awareness to two cancers that often go unnoticed but I will help cancer research find a cure to this awful disease and will try to get a positive out of this.

I have always been a true family person and like to spend at least some of my holidays at home making and cherishing memories. My uncle knew I had signed up to run a marathon and he thought I was mad: if only he knew that he is the main reason for my decision! I think it's essential that I mention my parents and sister at this point. They too think I am mad but understand (a little!) why this is my way of dealing with this tragedy. Their strength, love and kindness is inspiring and I hope I make them proud.

Please dig deep. This is not just for me, this is for every person that has been affected by this awful disease.

I also welcome anybody and everybody to see me in Manchester on 8 April somewhere on route and afterwards to remember and celebrate the lives of all those affected (and to hopefully celebrate my achievement!). You are also welcome to join me on any training run.

Ron and Margaret: words cannot describe how proud I am of you both and how much you both inspire me to better myself every day, being kind and supportive every step of the way. My heart is shattered and broken but you are two reasons why I get up every morning wanting to better myself and help others.

❤
Calon lan yn llawn daioni
Tecach yw na'r lili dlos
Dim ond calon lan all ganu
Canu'r dydd a chanu'r nos
❤

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