This fundraising page is dedicated to raising awareness and vital funds for Barts Charity, inspired by Mabel, my brave granddaughter who was recently diagnosed with retinoblastoma - a rare and aggressive eye cancer affecting young children.

In August last year my daughter Robyn and her partner Josh had their second child and mine and my wife’s fourth grandchild Mabel, sister to her two-and-a-half-year-old big brother Jaxon. Everything was perfect to begin with, Mabel developed just as any child would, hitting all of her milestones as a lovely smiley baby.

However, this January Mabel's uncle noticed that her right eye looked a little bit different from her left. Robyn started to do some research, part of which suggested taking a photo of Mabel with the flash on. What could be seen from the photo is a pink dot in the left eye, as you would expect with the flash, but a very clear white dot in the right one. The result was quite stark and prompted an immediate appointment with the GP.

After seeing a few different specialists, Mabel was ultimately examined by a consultant who delivered the devastating news that, at only seven months old, Mabel had a tumour at the back of her right eye. She was diagnosed with a rare form of eye cancer called retinoblastoma - which affects children, mainly under the age of six. The consultants’ reassuring words were that the doctors at Great Ormond Street would do their best to save her eye.

To go from healthy baby to “your seven-month-old has cancer” is something that no family should have to go through. That same evening, which is an indication of how serious this condition is, Robyn received a call from The Royal London Hospital to explain exactly what Mabel had, on a scale of A to E (E being the worst) her tumour was graded D. The doctors also said that if the tumour was any bigger, then Mabel would of had to receive lifesaving treatment and get her eye removed. Lots of information then came her way including information packs, contacts for charities and support networks.

As Mabel has been navigating treatment over the past few months, it has been a difficult time for us as a family. However, the kindness and generosity we have received from Barts has been nothing short of incredible. The work they do for families like ours is truly inspiring.

On 18th October, I will be running the Great South Run in support of Barts, hoping to raise as much money as possible for the charity. Between now and Christmas I will also be working with friends and colleagues to host more charity events, bake sales, quiz nights - all in support of Barts.

Early detection is crucial, and by sharing Mabel’s journey, we hope to encourage parents, grandparents, friends and family to recognise the warning signs and seek medical advice if you see something that doesn't look right.

Every donation, big or small, helps make a difference. Thank you so much for your support - it genuinely means a lot.

Money raised will help fund life-saving treatments, research, and support services for children and families, like ours, who are battling this difficult time.

Thank you, Russ x