Eileen Rose Quickfall "Sally" - Mum to Simon and James, wife, love of his life and best friend to Ken, Grandma to Thomas, Emilia and Charlie, Mother-in-law to Jo and Jess passed away peacefully and asleep at 11.15pm on 1st September 2018 with us sat with her at home.

She fought breast cancer for 10 and a half years.  She won many battles but ultimately lost the war.  She was and continues to be an inspiration for us and all that knew her.  She brought a little sparkle into the lives of those she met and no one will ever forget her.

Not many people really knew the fight she was waging against cancer and the effect of the various treatments she underwent including pioneering trials for the betterment of others if not herself.  She was a proud lady, never seen by anyone other than her family anything less than immaculately presented.  This wasn't hard for Mum.  She was so wonderful.

She made many, many friends over the years which was seen at her funeral.  All Saints Church was full to the rafters which was amazing to see.  In the eve of her life she supported others who were diagnosed with cancer and became a symbol of strength and courage to both women and men who were fighting.  She was loved by all the amazing staff at Dorchester Hospital, especially those miracle workers in the Fortuneswell Unit.  She was loved by the Doctors and Nurses at The Royal Marsden Hospital in London who dedicate their lives to furthering the research and development of drugs and treatments which one day will result in this terrible disease being beaten.

Mum was part of that battle.  Her contribution over the years has without doubt, helped many people and continues to do so.  What better way to remember her?  A true pioneer and champion.

We can never say thank you to all those who helped our Mum properly but they know who they are and I know James, Dad and I would like to say a personal "thank you" to all of you.

So who was Sally?  Well, she was born on 28th November 1947 in Wallingford as Eileen Rose.  Her Dad created the name Sally which stuck.  No one really knows why and unfortunately he never really said.

She had a difficult early life losing her own Mum to cancer as a child.  She has three brothers, the eldest Frank managed to secure work so that the children could stay in the family house.  It wasn't an easy ride for Frank, Walt, Tony and Mum but they did it and are all a huge success and a example of what can be done against all odds.

Walt lost his life suddenly a few years back to a heart attack.  Mum went to be with him and they are now watching over us.

Mum met Ken, our Dad about a million years ago and instantly Dad realised that this was the one.  They married a few years later and the rest is history.  

They were devoted to each other.  They held hands everywhere they went right to the end.  They said good morning, good night and made sure to kiss and make up if they fell out.  This is an important life lesson to everyone.  

Mum often said, "Life is too short so make the most of it".  You're right Mum.  We are.

Family was very important to her.  She was our "Peggy Mitchel" and would fight like a cornered Lioness to defend James and I even though we're now in our 40's.  No one wanted to be on the received end of Mum.  That might be why she didn't have to do it too often.  But, when she did, by God the receiver knew it...……

James was Mum's guardian.  He is a strong, likeable character who cares hugely for his family and friends.  He made it his personal mission to look after Mum.  When she left us to join her brother, that mission changed and now he's Dad's protector.

Mum had a way of making us feel loved and better when things didn't go to plan.  A gentle touch on the cheek with her hand was all that was needed.

She very quickly accepted both Jo and Jess into her life as daughters that she never had.  She told James and I right from the start that they were good ones and we should do the right thing.  She loved them both as much as she did us.

Dad spent 10 and a half years being Mum's carer.  He made sure she was on time for each and every appointment no matter where it was.  He made sure she ate and drank when she had no energy.  He made sure she was comfortable and protected.  She knew everything he did for her and loved him as much as he loves her.  

It's fair to say, she left a huge hole in our lives that cannot ever be filled but she wanted us to live our lives and carry on knowing that she would watch over us.  I know you're there Mum.

What about me?  Well, I never was as rebellious or brave as James.  I was the goody goody.  Sure, I had my moments and could be stroppy, some say that's still the case.  Mum knew just what to say or do to make sure I was on the right path.

She gave us both a great start in life which continues to this day.

The Grandchildren, Tom, Millie and Charlie were the jewel in Mum's crown.  She absolutely adored them and nothing was too much.  They knew they were loved.  She could give the cuddle or tell a story to them and everything was right in the World.  She is missed by them hugely but they know she will watch over them as they grow too.

We love you Mum and you will never be forgotten.   

Why are we doing this walk?  It's not going to be easy.  Despite all the research James and I have done and all the advise given to us by the Army, Coastguard and Fleet Wardens about the dangers and risks involved, we're doing it.

We intend to set off early on the 1st September 2018 before sunrise and walk the entire 18 miles of the beach.  Anyone who's stepped foot on the pebbles will know that it's one step forward, two back.  

This walk is to raise money for the Fortuneswell Ward at Dorchester Hospital.  They continue to do absolutely fantastic work with people fighting cancer.  They are some of the most genuine people I have ever met in my life but they need our help.

Please support them and us by donating.

We'd like to raise £2000 for the charity.

Thank you on behalf of James, Ken, Me, Tom, Millie, Charlie, Jo and Jess and of course, MUM.