Story
This could be one of the stupidest ideas I have ever had. I don't like running unless it's away from someone trying to tackle me, or indeed into someone trying to tackle me (a trying-to-be-retired rugby player). I have two hamstrings that tweak at the thought of too much exercise, and a cracked bone in my ankle beyond repair. These all pale into insignificance at the strength and courage shown by my Dad during his battle with cancer.
Dad was diagnosed with soft tissue sarcoma in February 2020 and despite extensive surgery was given a terminal diagnosis in November 2021.
Colin Charles Germain was born on 17th October 1957 at Rush Green Hospital, Romford, Essex, son to Charles and Celia, and younger brother to Susan. Colin came from a large London-based family and had a total of 16 Aunts and Uncles, and an even larger number of cousins, many of whom have expressed happy memories of all the families meeting up at regular parties and as children playing together.
Colin started his working life by helping the local milkman. One day, whilst helping, he tripped up a doorstep, fell, and landed on the broken bottles he had dropped. He ended up in A & E which may have been the catalyst to his first full-time role, working as a Lab Technician at Rush Green Hospital. A confident personality with the gift of the gab allowed Colin to carve out a career in medical sales,
working for various companies. Most recently Mat Ortho, where many of his colleagues became friends, and although he was a product specialist, still managed to win Salesman of the Year, despite not being part of the sales team.
Colin & Joan met in 1978 at the hospital where they both
worked. They married in 1981, and moved to Crewe, Joan’s childhood town, in 1985. The birth of me also in 1985, with
Kirsty in 1989, and finally Sam in 1991. Colin was an incredibly supportive Dad and encouraged all his children to follow their dreams.
Colin had many passions in life, one of which was the Scout
Association. He held many roles over his 30-plus years of service for the 35th South West Cheshire, Wistaston, the District, and the County. Most recently chairing the Crewe Gang Show Management Team. Colin was always happiest out walking with Joan and their dogs, with frequent trips to their beloved Scotland.
Like many families I owe everything to my Dad, he introduced me to water sports and outdoor activities for which I have built my career. His strength during the last 12 months of his life, will be forever my moral compass and guiding light.
Dad battled until the very end and was adamant he wanted to stay in his home, and not go into a hospice or hospital. This could not have been achieved without the support of MacMillan. I will be eternally grateful to MacMillan for this, and for why I am raising money for this amazing organisation.
Thanks for supporting my fundraising. At MacMillan, we give people with cancer everything we’ve got. If you’re diagnosed, your worries are our worries. We’re doing whatever it takes. But without your help, we can’t support everyone who needs us. Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast, and secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them 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.