The Beard And The Twiglet We’re Back 

James Story 

When I was 11 years old I lost my Nan to Bowel Cancer. 

I found this really difficult to cope with and my mum was devastated. 

I hated seeing her so sad but she was a strong woman and we got through this as a family. 

I didn't really understand what cancer was or how indiscriminate it was or how in the next 8 years it would rip my world apart.     

I was 19 when my mum (Juila) was diagnosed with bowel Cancer. 

We  were told that  it was terminal and she had up to 6 months to live which came as a massive shock to myself, brother, Dad and rest of the family and friends.  

I didn't know how I could prepare myself to say everything and do everything that I wanted to say and do with her in such in a short time.  

But sadly after less than 6 days of the diagnosis Mum closed her eyes and never opened them again.

A few years later My Mum’s sister Mary contracted the same Cancer she managed to fight it a few weeks longer than mum did but sadly the same outcome. 

After a serious of chats with Dr’s and a few tests it was decided that there is genetic disorder in our family called lynch syndrome. So this is why I'm keen to help Cancer related charities I’m always keen to help or raise as much money I can for them.

And every since the death of  the most important women in my life, my brother and I have to be tested every 3 years to make sure this disease doesn't take anymore of our family.

Losing my Mum to cancer was possible the worse day of my life its like have a part of you ripped away and no chance in ever getting back. 

I recently got married which  was the best day of my life and seeing the faces of friends and family beaming with joy at seeing me and wife (Becky) say I do. 

But there was always going to be something missing from that day. 

My mum, her face, her words. I miss her so much and would not wish this on anyone.

Since me and Carl took on the Great North Last year Cancer has reared it’s ugly head once again 6 months ago we were told my Step Mum Lyn was diagnosed with terminal Cancer but she’s a strong willed women and will fight this awful disease for as long as she physical can.

Sadly on the 25th January my last surviving Aunt Helen failed to win her battle with Cancer to all those that knew Helen she was the light in the room always had something to say.

She passed away quietly and pain free and Milton Keynes Hospital with family close by holding her hand.

So PLEASE PLEASE help me and Carl raise as much as we, so one day we can cure Cancer and hopefully nobody would have to lose someone they love to this awful disease. 

Carl’s Story

 I chose this charity as I have benifited from some of there reasearch in to preventing cancer, I have a mutated gene which has been linked to some forms of cancer because of this research I now get regular screening meaning these would be found long before they become a problem, and we all know that prevention is far better than cure.

Since we ran the Great North Run last year I lost my uncle to Cancer also lost one of my oldest friends and currently I have a friend under treatment.

Cancer just gets closer and closer to home so we both thank you all so much for your support and donations together we will make a difference.