In Honour of My Papa and For My Sister’s Fight

Cancer has touched my family in more ways than I ever imagined.

Five years ago, my papa was diagnosed with myelofibrosis, a rare type of blood cancer. Like many families facing a cancer diagnosis, we were suddenly introduced to a world of uncertainty, worry and difficult conversations. Through it all, my papa faced his illness with incredible strength, courage, and determination.

Although myelofibrosis is a rare cancer, its impact on the people living with it and those who love them is immeasurable. Charities such as Blood Cancer UK provide vital support, fund life-changing research, and offer hope to families navigating diagnoses like my papa’s. Their work helps improve understanding of blood cancers and brings us closer to better treatments and, one day, cures.

Sadly, I lost my papa in June last year. Not a day goes by that I don’t think about him. He was a loving papa, a source of wisdom, laughter, and comfort, and someone who showed remarkable resilience throughout his journey. I am incredibly proud of how bravely he fought and how much love he continued to give to those around him despite everything he was facing.

More recently, our family has once again been faced with cancer after my sister was diagnosed with salivary gland cancer, she has already gone through two surgeries since April!

Watching someone you love go through such a diagnosis is heartbreaking, but my sister has shown extraordinary courage, strength, and determination, everyday she continues to inspire me with the way she faces the challenges ahead while still having a smile on her face.

(Update) On the 10th of June 2026 we got the most amazing news that there was no cancer & no further treatment required! 🥹

Because of this, I have chosen to support Blood Cancer UK and wish to donate some of what I raise to Salivary Gland Cancer UK. By raising money and awareness, I hope to honour my papa’s memory while also supporting my sister and others who are currently facing their own cancer journeys.

This fundraiser is for two people I love deeply: my papa, whose strength and legacy will stay with me forever, and my sister, whose courage reminds me every day what it means to keep fighting, two of my biggest inspirations in life

I am so proud of them both.

Thank you to everyone who donates, shares, or simply takes the time to read this story. Every contribution helps fund research, support patients and families, and brings hope to those affected by cancer.

For my papa. For my sister. For every family facing cancer.