Running the marathon is going to be an almost impossible task for me. At the moment I cannot run for longer than about 90 seconds without having to stop/consider calling an ambulance for my imminent heart attack. But I know it won't be as hard as what the children supported by Young Lives vs Cancer go through. And so every step will be for them.

I have worked for Young Lives vs Cancer since 2019 and have met the most amazing, inspiring, resilient children and their families going through cancer treatment, but in this economic climate, things are getting so much harder for them.

Each day, around 11 children and young people are told "it's cancer". At that moment, their world falls apart and children and families worry about what next for their health. But then they think about the other things....will my child be able to go back to school? How will we afford heating bills now? How will we afford the cost of transport? What does this mean for my university course? How will my family stay nearby when I'm having chemotherapy? 

And this is where Young Lives vs Cancer come in. Social Workers listen to your worries and help you navigate the bumpy road ahead. We might help your family stay in one of the Home from Homes near every primary treatment centre (for free!). We might help you apply for benefits, or a Blue Badge to make parking easier when your child is exhausted from chemotherapy. We might help speak to your work or your school to help them understand your needs. Or we might just listen to your worries when no one else understands.

Sadly, around 5 children per week will lose their lives to cancer. But Young Lives vs Cancer will continue to support the family to help remember their lost love one, and deal with the practical, financial and emotional impact linked with death. We might help with memory making before a loved one passes away, or help with funeral plans and costs; whatever makes those difficult days more bearable. And we will continue to listen and help you celebrate the life of the child who died.

The NHS provides wonderful oncology treatment, but it does not help with all of these extra practicalities and Young Lives vs Cancer is not government funded; we rely on donors like you only.

I know times are so hard for everyone at the moment but even if you can donate just £1, it will all help when families hear the worst news they could ever hear.

Even if you can't donate, please check out the website and spread the word for children with cancer https://www.younglivesvscancer.org.uk/

Thank you!