My family and I are taking part in the 14-mile Marsden March on Sunday 16 March 2014 to raise money for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. 

I was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in May 2012. Having undergone chemotherapy, I then had an oesophagectomy operation in January 2013 - if anyone want to know what this entails, go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jepSww8mpJY  

The fantastic news is that following further chemotherapy, The Royal Marsden has effectively rid me of the cancer.  All during this time, The Royal Marsden has given me a Gold Standard of compassionment care and treatment.  This is my and my family's way of saying 'Thank-you'. 

Until I had to undergo this experience personally, I had no idea how much the hospital depends on voluntary donations for essential equipment.  When I came round from the anaesthetic in their critical care unit, I was using an oxgen machine that had been donated to the hospital.  It would be great if we could raise enough money to purchase something equally worthwhile.