In January my family was left devastated after the sudden prognosis that my father, Peter, has terminal cancer. Sadly, the diagnosis came after being misdiagnosed by GP's over the last few years, who failed to act upon typical bowel cancer symptoms. Not only was he diagnosed with bowel cancer, the cancer was stage 4 and had spread to his liver and lymph nodes. Bravely, he is undertaking aggressive palliative chemotherapy as a means to halt the cancer from spreading any further.

Peter's story is so very sadly, one of countless that keep hitting the media regarding colorectal cancer diagnosis. The cancer is found too late. The symptoms are present for years but many GP’s seem not to act upon them. As a layperson I find it unfathomable that a medical doctor would not take a patient in their 50's seriously reporting typical colorectal cancer symptoms.

But there is no time to be angry, only to accept and think forward. Peter's favourite place is Cornwall. He has rescheduled and even delayed chemo sessions to have a week gap to return to Cornwall for a break this month with just the family. Whilst, touch wood, his side effects have eased and he is well enough to travel. Cornwall has been keeping him going through the gruelling chemo sessions.

So, what I am here to do; Whilst I am supporting my parents in any way that I can, financially and emotionally, I am looking to help raise money to help my parents during this tough year. As my father is putting plans into action to make the house secure for my mum to live in. He is hiring someone to replace the guttering, tile the bathroom and other jobs to make the house sturdier and secure for my mother in the long term. And so it is all these “little yet big” jobs and Cornwall that I am raising money for.

I thank every single person who has taken the time to read this. And from the bottom of my heart, I thank every single donation- it means so much to my family :) :)

Love,

Katie xxx