As some of you would know during the first lockdown, my Dad was diagnosed with incurable cancer and brain tumours. We all had to make sacrifices during this pandemic, but this truly was a very devastating time for my family. However, thanks to Southend Hospital and especially, the Oncology Department, they acted incredibly quickly and my Dad , even though he has his bad days, he has had so much support and he has started his treatment. Even though this is going to be a very long journey, we are closer to getting these diseases controlled as much as possible.

Sadly, we also found out that Niall’s best friend was diagnosed with testicular cancer at the age of 28. This then spread to his lymph node which subsequently means he is now enduring chemotherapy. However, the Oncology Department again have been amazing in his fight against cancer.

Due to this, we wanted to raise some money for the Oncology Department at Southend Hospital as a thank you for everything they have done so far. The pandemic has been extremely hard as it is but not being able to have my support system during this personally difficult time made it even harder. 

So what is it that we are going to do? 

I am going to be running a mile a day during January (for someone who can’t run, this is a true challenge for me.) I truly do struggle with running and with the added obstacles of wet/cold weather, dark nights and long school days, I hope you’ll understand that it is going to take a lot for me to get my bum off the sofa! 

Niall won’t be joining me on the running, but he will be showing his support by giving up alcohol for January. He drinks beer like I drink tea (quite often) so this will be tough for him too! 

We understand that this is a difficult time but we would really appreciate any donations that you can spare. Thank you. 

 #helpyourhospital