in October ‘24 - at the grand old age of 35, with 2 toddlers and a partner just out of lung cancer surgery - my life was turned upside down. Having had some mild gastric issues, my doctor sent me for an endoscopy, which led to a devastating diagnosis - an aggressive form of cancer - Stage 4 - that’s thrown every predictable part of my world into chaos. Since then, it’s been a whirlwind of doctors appointments, medical terms I never thought I’d have to learn, and endless amounts of uncertainty and worry.

As a result of my cancer being stage 4 - inoperable and incurable - I’ve decided to decline palliative chemotherapy and have found myself seeking alternative ways of handling my cancer (un-affectionately called “Dave” - this is what happens when you let a 3 year old name it. My choices were this or “super jet pete”) that wont affect my quality of life so severely. And, I‘ve had the privilege of accessing treatments that show real promise, especially metabolic therapy, which targets cancer cells’ energy sources. Dr Isabella Cooper, a brilliant researcher at the University of Westminster, is spearheading this area, focused on giving people like me - those with advanced, complex cancer diagnoses - a fighting chance. I’ve also seen first-hand the power of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), a treatment which the Pure Serenity Foundation hopes to provides to people whom otherwise couldn’t afford it.

Here’s why I’m raising money: not for myself, but for those who are fighting this fight without the resources I’ve had. Imagine facing late-stage cancer, knowing there are options out there that might help, but feeling they’re out of reach because of financial constraints. That’s the reality for so many people, and it shouldn’t be!

This money will go to these two causes initially (potentially with others being added if the pot grows large enough). The first, metabolic therapy (including the amazing work of Dr Isabella Cooper, and that of Amanda King), which aims to advance life-saving approaches, that have the potential to change the outlook for all cancer patients, and potentially even wider than that. The second, the Pure Serenity Foundation, whom want to make HBOT accessible to those who need it most.

I’m incredibly grateful to be able to access these treatments myself, but my goal now is to open doors for others. By supporting this fundraiser, you’re not just contributing to the research and accessibility of these therapies - you’re standing with every person facing late-stage cancer who deserves access to hope and a fighting chance.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, I will then split the finds equally between these 2 amazing causes. It's the most efficient way to donate and saves time and costs.