At Children with Cancer UK, we actively raise and invest money for vital specialist research to save the lives of every child with cancer and keep their family together. Through our investment in research, we are taking forward our understanding of childhood cancer, to give new insights into ways of treating young patients with even the most difficult forms of cancer. We are working to drive up the survival rate still further by developing more effective curative therapies with fewer toxic side effects.

As a registered nurse who has always worked in oncology and now the lead chemotherapy nurse of a hospital in South West England. I have always known the devastating effects cancer has not only on the patient but wider support network. In 2019 my family’s life was turned upside down when my wonderful 7 year old nephew was diagnosed with an incurable brain tumour called DIPG. His Mum & Dad were told to go home and make memories with a prognosis of 1 year.

Conor was an extraordinary 7 year old boy never once complained, had numerous painful procedures, he lost his swallow ability and had to be tube fed. Conór LOVED pizza and ice-cream. Conór loved nature out in his bike. Conór adored his family especially his big brother Ruairi. Conór was not only my nephew but also my godchild. 

In April 2020 in the height of covid pandemic I got the phone call I never wanted to get. Conór had died peacefully at home with his Mum, Dad and brave big brother. Due to covid restrictions I could not fly to Ireland and grieve with my family.  Telling my daughter her cousin had died was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do.

This is all so tragic but we know Conór wouldn’t want us to be sad. Every minute of the day we think of Conór we feel him with us. I’m not going say I’m a fast runner but having Conór with me I can run the marathon.

Cancer doesn’t care but I do and if I can help even 1 child or family then I’m sure Conór will be proud.