On the 17th of February 2017 my Mum was diagnosed with stage 3 squamous carcinoma cancer located on the tongue.

This was the start of a very difficult journal for our family especially for mum. Her first procedures included partial removal of the tongue with removal of tendon, skin, nerves and veins as well as a neck dissection to remove cancerous lymph nodes. More surgery included removing the skin, veins and nerves from her right arm to rebuild her tongue. A horrid invasive procedure leaving mum vulnerable and scared.

This was followed by a course of intense radiotherapy sessions - The strengths of the rays left mum with terrible burns down her neck. The treatment rendering her unable to talk or eat. The treatment left her feeling terrible - taking away her ability to talk and eat. Not being able to communicate properly with my poor mum was the hardest part. Eventually a peg feed ( inserted into her stomach) was the only course of nutrients that kept mum going.

It was a very tough few months watching a healthy, vibrant full of life lady deteriorate so rapidly. However the services at the Lynda Jackson Macmillan Centre offered a relaxing, peaceful environment for our mum and family as well as information and support. My mum very much benefited from the therapies and counselling advice given to her from the amazing Macmillan Nurses.

The annual running costs of the Lynda Jackson Macmillan Centre
exceed £650,000, of which approximately 70% has to be raised through voluntary donations so it is vital that we can keep supporting the centre by any means.

I hope by running the London Marathon I will raise a substantial amount of money for an amazing charity such as Macmillan and to also raise awareness of the disease itself. My mum, also an extremely caring nurse dedicated her life to helping treat sick patients. I want to repay her by raising the most amount of money I can so my mum and others will continue to receive the best care possible.

Every donation is appreciated!

Wish me luck xxx

xxx Harriet xxx