Gwynne Frank Harries, the strongest man I have ever known and the man I was lucky enough to call Grandad. My whole life I was in awe of his achievements, from being a prominent figure in Essex Cricket and playing Rugby for London welsh, I could use my whole word count just touching on all the amazing things he did. A true sportsman, so there is no better way to honour his memory, than with a challenge. 

My Grandad was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 1996, the year I was born. He lived, with no major issues, until 2015. Whilst on holiday he took a stumble, which later was shown to be because of a tumour putting pressure on his spine, causing partial paralysis in both his legs. With Radiation therapy and surgery he was up and walking for another 4years. Throughout his recovery, he showed determination and bravery, he was determined to continue and never gave up. Our Grandad was a strong family man and installed in all of us that family will always come first. One of the many things he taught me and my sister was that no matter what Grandma and Grandad were only a few steps behind us where ever we go and whatever path we take. Towards the end of 2019 my darling Grandad began showing signs something wasn’t right,  losing balance and again falling over. The cancer had come back, however, he was strong and again determined as ever to fight this horrible disease. With lockdown and Covid-19, 2020 wasn’t easy for my Grandmama and Grandad. During his regular Chemotherapy visits and physiotherapy sessions, Grandad was always positive and never gave up. Unfortunately In September 2020, Grandad caught pneumonia, luckily we were blessed with the opportunity for Grandad and Grandma to stay at the London Clinic in London for Grandad to receive the best care be could. On November 14th we were informed Grandad wasn’t looking good and might not make the weekend, we all luckily were able to see him before he peacefully passed on the 16th November 2020. All the way up until his last breath he fought so hard to stay with us, so we thought it was only right to at least show a fraction of the strength and bravery he did by honouring his memory with a challenge.

Myself, my dad and my sister are taking part in the Blenheim Palace Triathlon in memory of my Grandad, Gwynne Harries. For all the years he fought cancer to stay with us and my incredible Grandma. This one is for you Grandad. We miss you every single day and love you with every inch of our bodies. Until we meet again, rest in paradise. Xxx 

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