My name is Jacqueline Long and i was diagnosed with oral cancer on 18th January 2012.  I didn't feel unwell but for about three months i had a constant cough, very tickly at the back of my throat.  After several visits to my doctor he sent me to ENT and i was examined and sent the very next day to have my tonsils removed and a bioposy from my tongue.  Unfortunately it was cancer and i was told they would remove part of my tongue.  Cutting a very long story short and after seven weeks in hospital they replaced part of my tongue with inner part of my arm, and then skin grafted this from my leg.  My first impression after surgery was that i looked liked frankenstein and i was horrified and scared that i would never beat this terrible illness and what it had done to me, i was so chatty and for six weeks i couldn't even speak. I endured seven weeks of radiotherapy and thankfully once this was over i began my recovery, with the help of all the medical team who were looking after me. I returned to work on 14th January 2013 less than a year since my diagnosis. I was informed that my treatment and recovery would take at least two years.  I have now not to return for a check up until 7th July 2014 and all my consultants are amazed at how quickly i have recovered.  I cannot thank my family and also friends but most importantly, the people who looked after me...... and thats why Miriam and David are doing this run to raise funds for the Beatson who do a great job and do anything over and above the call of duty to ensure your comfort. For this I thank them from the bottom of my heart.

I am honoured and humbled that they have decided to do this run in my name,  i cried when Will told me it means so much to me.  Not sure what else to write don't want to go on and on but this is the condensed version of my illness and my recovery.

 

Loadsa luv

 

Jackie