I'm joining a team of 16 people, trekking to Everest Base Camp. This is going to be a HUGE personal challenge for me - I've never done anything like this before! - but I'm really excited to have an opportunity to raise funds for an incredibly deserving charity.  

I, and other members of the team are raising monies for 'Little Havens Hospice' based in Colchester. When a family has been told that there’s no cure for their loved one’s illness, Little Havens Hospice can help, controlling pain and medication, supporting families, offering short breaks and caring for adults, babies, children and teenagers at the end of their lives. A team member has used this facility and Alli shares Jack's story below:

JACK'S STORY

Jack was born 21st December 1995 and appeared to be perfectly healthy, however, at the age of two he was diagnosed with a benign brain tumour. This was successfully removed after two lengthy surgeries at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Three months later at the age of three, after showing extreme symptoms which turned out to be puberty, he was diagnosed with an adrenal tumour which had become so large, it had grown up into his heart. After major abdominal and open heart surgery and a spell in ICU, he recovered well, and after a short course of chemontherapy we felt we were in the clear.

Six years later (2006) at the age of ten, Jack began having headaches and sickness, and on investigation was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour (Gliblastoma). Surgery, followed by a year long course of oral chemo and six weeks of radiotherapy, Jack was doing well.

The following year on a routine brain scan they found what they thought was a blood clot. Once removed and examined, they discovered not only gliobastoma cells but also Scaroma cells. It was decided to give Jack a course of chemo. It was at this time we were invited to Little Havens. We let Jack make the decision and without hesitation couldn't wait for his first visit. Little Havens gave Jack the chance to be independent, make new friends, forget about hospital (scan, blood test, results etc) and just enjoy life. It is the most amazingly fun place!

Around November 2009 both the Glioblastoma and Scarcoma had returned and we were told there was nothing more that could be done for Jack.

We cared for Jack at home until he died on the morning of the 21st February 2010. He was taken straight to Little Havens and the next time we saw him was in the Woodland Suite.

 I cannot find a more  deserving cause to support.

Please help us raise £5,380 which is the height of Everest Base Camp above sea-level, 5380m.