This year we’re working to raise money for The Royal Marsden.  I have to admit to a personal interest – my lovely big brother fought an
ultimately unsuccessful battle against cancer for seven years.

During that time he faced his challenges with the good humoured stubbornness that characterised much of his life while adding some truly surprising innovations along the way.

Keith’s way of coping with this wretched disease was to talk and to share.  Over seven years he transformed himself from
not-too-keen-on-writing –full-sentences to published author (try Bangers
 and Mash by Keith Hern – available on Amazon) and from
appalled-at-the-prospect-of-giving-a-speech to Motivational speaker,
YouTube diarist and frequent media interviewee.

Along the way he tried most forms of alternative therapy, displaying an adamant belief that somewhere there was a treatment – however bizarre – that would cure him.

Throughout his journey the most effective treatment and support came from the Royal Marsden. Keith recognised the debt he owed the hospital
and the years of life its treatment enabled him to live.  He started
fundraising and it’s our turn to carry on.

There may never be an infallible cure for cancer, but a treatment centre that provides support as well as chemicals, research as well as
tested programmes and a calm and homely environment is worth some
effort.

So in 2017 we have set ourselves a challenge.  We will be holding a series of events throughout the year.  First off, pub quiz on 23
February.  Anyone likely to be in the vicinity of Putney is more than
welcome to come along – or to contribute a raffle prize for the evening.

Pub Quiz is followed by the Marsden March.  The entire Ridgemount team – with the exception of those who will be in imminent danger of
giving birth - has been coerced into walking from the Royal Marsden in
Brompton to the Royal Marsden in Surrey on 19^th March.  We will be asking for sponsorship, naturally, and providing updates on how we’re doing.