In October of 2025 my Aunt Susan Dwyer died of mesothelioma lung cancer.

Myself, Susan’s niece, and her great nieces Jessica and Laura have decided to run the Plymouth 10K on May the 17th 2026 in honour of Susan, and to raise much needed funds for the St Lukes Hospice Charity, who allowed her to pass away peacefully at home.

Laure (9) will run the final mile of 13 miles run over 12 weeks with her school on Plymouth Hoe.

Susan was diagnosed with mesothelioma (asbestos) lung cancer in 2024. Susan led an extraordinary life, attending University early and receiving a double first medical degree. She was one of the first women to start General Practice in Plymouth in the 1970’s; She extensively travelled the world on walking holidays: started a charity foundation, supporting disadvantaged children into further education; and excelled in whatever she undertook from rowing, weaving, knitting and more recently gardening..

Over the latter stages of her life she developed the most beautiful garden with various gardeners, and initiated the annual open gardens event in Thurlestone. Her dying wish was to die at home overlooking her beautiful garden and the South Devon coast.

St Luke's hospice allowed her to do just this, visiting twice a day, during her end of life care.

The compassion and care the St Luke's nurses gave to her, have inspired our family to undertake this Run to raise funds to allow other patients and family members, comfort during those final few weeks of life. Additionally it is a charity close to our heart as it is located just around the corner from us in Turnchapel.

I am not a natural runner and find the Saturday Central Park Run of 5k a struggle (Mr Clay can testify to this as he over takes me !) Both great nieces decided that they too wanted to get involved to support this charity in Susan’s name, so it seemed fitting to all sign up.

If you would like to support this worthwhile charity we would be delighted if you could donate a little, and gift aid if possible ( a benefit of an additional 25%) to allow the charity to keep supporting other cancer sufferers and their families at such a difficult time.

With thanks and appreciation.

Candice, Jess and Laura.