Dave a friend who I had known since my Polytechnic years in the mid 80s, we stayed  in touch after finishing polytechnic as he married my best friend Anj Thompson in 1993. They were a beautiful couple that were meant to be together. Dave was a chilled, private, humble, humorous, sporty and the most caring person I had ever known. He was not only a wonderful husband but a doting father to both his daughters - Jasmine and Zoe. Dave was a very special friend; I was so happy that he was a part of my life and thought he would be around forever.

In 2005 Dave was diagnosed with soft tissue fibrosarcoma, a rare type of cancer and in 2007 he underwent surgery. The cancer continued to develop and in 2012 was informed that it had spread into his bones, and also had 3 tennis ball size tumours in his abdomen. Dave was a fighter no matter what pain he was in he made sure that he and his family spent as much time together to continue making wonderful memories. He eventually found solace once he began to receive professional support which helped him to deal with any hurdles he faced, and he also ended up joining forums and helped other cancer sufferers. To me this showed the type of person he was; positive, determined, and selfless. 

Dave got involved with a charity Sarcoma UK that is a national charity that funds vital research, offers supports for anyone affected by sarcoma cancer and campaigns for better treatments. It is the only cancer charity in the UK that focuses on all types of Sarcoma.

For those which may not know please see some key facts about sarcoma:

Sarcoma is a type of cancer that starts in tissues & can develop anywhere in the body.

15 people are diagnosed every single day in the UK'

Since 2009, Sarcoma UK have invested over £2 million in finding better ways to treat and even cure sarcoma.

Sarcoma UK receives no government funding. All their income comes from the generosity of donors and fundraisers.

 More about Sarcoma UK's work

I chose Sarcoma UK as they provide so much support for not only the person suffering with cancer but also their families and carry out research. Dave and his family had gone through so much for many years and he sadly passed away in March 2016.

Being frightened of heights I have finally plucked up the courage to do something outside of my comfort zone and skydive at a height of 13,000ft. This seems minimal compared to what Dave and others go through with sarcoma. The day of my skydive was originally 13th March which represented Dave’s death anniversary and however due to me getting Covid I had to reschedule  for 12th June 2022. 
.I would be so grateful if you would be able to support me, no matter how big or how small, and the funds I raise will help Sarcoma UK and those who need support.