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In memory of our Sister:

Michelle Janes (nee Rowland) - 26th June 1968 - 24th October 2018 Aged 50

We are raising funds for Teesside Hospice who gave amazing care to our sister in the final days of her journey whilst there. The Hospice carries out amazing work and provides a vitally important service. The care they provided for Michelle was just one example of the brilliant work that they do.

It was during the celebration of Michelle's life when we first had the discussion about doing something to both raise awareness and, if possible, funds for Teesside Hospice; in loving memory of our late sister.

It was a passing suggestion which immediately stuck. We had a challenge and a purpose, we were going to cycle the Coast to Coast from Whitehaven to Seaton Carew (155 miles) over 3 days. Four brothers, supported by family and friends. We set our challenge for August Bank Holiday 2019.

Michelle's Story

Michelle was 47 yrs old when she went for a routine smear test. Immediately following the test, and without waiting for her results, Michelle was sent straight to hospital due to excessive bleeding.
A biopsy was taken from which Michelle was told there was a small amount of cancer on her cervix but, it was treatable.

She firstly had a hysterectomy, only to find the cancer was still there. Radiotherapy was then started - every day for a month, followed by chemotherapy and brachytherapy, in the hope that she would be cured as doctors were very happy with how things had gone.
Unfortunately scans proved otherwise and further treatment then followed at the Freeman Hospital, which she didn't respond too.
Doctors then decided to try a stronger treatment but, unfortunately, her body was so weak all treatment had to stop as her body couldn't cope.

Breathing problems had started and, yet again, another scan gave us the news no family wants to hear; it had spread to her bones, lungs, ribs etc forming blood clots.

For two and a half years Michelle fought Cancer. Throughout this time she was the bravest, happiest, go-lucky person who lived for her children and grandchildren. Without the love and care from her parents, who were with her every step of the way, we don't think this would have been possible.

During the final months of Michelle's time with us we, as a family, tried to get out as much as we could, taking her to her favourite places including visits to Whitby, all you can eat buffets and even her first 3D movie experience. This allowed Michelle to enjoy a much needed change of scenery and a brief escape from her own thoughts whilst allowing us to capture some amazing final memories. 

Michelle decided in her own time when it was the right time for her to go into Teeside Hospice were they provided 24 hour care and support to her and to us as a family. Our sister remained with the Teesside Hospice until she passed away quietly in her sleep with her dad and her best friend, Katie, by her side. 

Whilst it would be easy to say it is their job and it is what they are paid to do, to us as a family, and to Michelle, it was so much more. It is something we were, and are all still, incredibly thankful for.

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