In September 2023, I’m running the GNR for Ovarian Cancer Action in honour of my Mum. 

Ovarian cancer is referred to as a silent killer, as it is often detected at advanced stages when treatment options are limited. The lack of effective screening tools and awareness of the disease and its symptoms make it one of the deadliest cancers for women of all ages. 

In November 2022, my amazing Mum, Caro, was diagnosed with advanced stage 4 ovarian cancer which came as a complete shock. Over the last 8 months, we’ve been heartbroken and devastated at the severity of this aggressive and in Mum's case, chemo-resistant disease as well as the rapid deterioration on Caro’s health in such a short time that unfortunately leave us with few treatment options and very limited time. In just summer last year, she was hiking the strenuous Haute Route in Switzerland with friends and no clear or obvious symptoms at all!! That’s why the work that Ovarian Cancer Action does is vital to raise awareness and fund research projects so they can save the lives of women in the future who will or have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer and are undergoing treatment.

To help raise funds for the charity and awareness of the disease, I’m running the Great North Run half marathon (eek!) in Newcastle this coming September. Newcastle is not only the city Caro encouraged me to go to university, but it’s also one that we have so many fond memories of together. 

Running a half marathon alone is a massive deal for me - I’m not a runner and don’t enjoy running (especially solo!) so this will be a huge challenge! I’d be so grateful for any support you can give to motivate me to get across the finish line and support me in raising awareness about this awful disease. Please read and share this story where you can and find more information about Ovarian Cancer here  - https://www.ovarian.org.uk -  I hope it can help save lives in the future. 

THANK YOU