Just over 8 weeks ago, I was given a diagnosis that no-one ever wants. It is a diagnosis that will be given to 50,000 mums, nanas, sisters, aunts, nieces, wives and girlfriends this year. Overnight, their lives will change, just as mine did. Up will seem like down and vice versa. 

I would be lying if I said this wasn't a challenging time, but equally it is a time where you find support and love in the most unexpected places. You find it in the expertise of the most skilled surgeon, the knowledge of the oncologist, the understanding of the specialist oncology nurse / Macmillan nurse and in the knowing smile of the receptionist. The care that I have received at The Christie and Wilmslow Hospital has been exceptional, delivered with compassion and empathy and it is staggering to think that The Christie will do the same for another 45,000 patients and their families in the next twelve months.

In recognition of all of the lovely healthcare professionals that are striving to ensure this difficult journey is as easy as it can be for lots of patients, Francesca (our eldest daughter) and I will be shaving off all our hair on the 10th of July, in an attempt to raise awareness and hopefully some cash for The Christie and also Macmillan Cancer Support. For those of you who know me, you will know that I have a love/hate relationship with my hair, having been given more than my fair share and the irony of this situation has not escaped me. However, Francesca is doing this purely to support this cause and for this selfless act I could not be more proud.

I would also like to take this opportunity to say thank you to my family and friends for the endless flowers, cakes, meals, childminding, texts hand - holding and unexpected acts of kindness - you all know who you are. You, like the multi-disiplinary team above, are also our superheros.

So...photos will be supplied (obviously anyone who thinks they can rock a grade 1 all over, is welcome to join in).

Lots of love Helen & Francesca

You can donate on this page to the right, or should you wish you can donate on Francesca's page here https://bravetheshave.macmillan.org.uk/shavers/francesca-dunkley

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 for the charity.