In September 2024, I am taking on a Mighty Hike along the beautiful Wye Valley to raise vital funds for people living with cancer. I have pledged to raise £250 and would appreciate any support in reaching this. By fundraising my pledge, I could pay for a Macmillan Support Worker for two days who could provide emotional, practical and financial advice to someone affected by cancer. Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs.

As you will all be aware, 2019 was the hardest year of my life. I was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer and was told that I would have to undergo 7 rounds of chemotherapy, followed by a mastectomy, then 3 weeks of radiotherapy. Then, I would also need to have an injection every 3 weeks for a year. This news hit me and my family hard, my daughter was only 5 and my son was just 1 year old. All I could think about was them and my husband and how hard this was going to be for them. I didn't want to leave them. Thankfully, we are through the worst now and I was given the all clear just before Christmas 2019.

I had my very own dedicated Macmillan nurses at both St Albans and Mount Vernon hospitals who offered me amazing support and advice at the toughest times. They were always welcoming and nothing was ever too much for them, even though they were so busy and had lots of other patients to care for. They got me through when I didn't want to put more pressure on my already extremely supportive family and friends. They held my hand every step of the way and I will be eternally grateful to them. They are still helping me now, offering counselling and relaxation treatments, along with the odd reassuring chat to get me through the anxiety and uncertainty it has caused me - they really are a wonderful organisation.

On top of my own experience, my cousin received treatment for breast cancer last year and has thankfully made a full recovery. However, a very close family friend also had a cancer diagnosis but passed away as a result last year. Sadly, she wasn't lucky like me and my cousin but during her illness, she received outstanding care and support from Macmillan right until the very end.

This cause matters so much to every person living with cancer, including their loved ones. So, please dig deep and help them to continue the fantastic work that they do!