When I asked my Mum what she would like me to write in this description, she said to raise awareness and educate others on the symptoms of Ovarian Cancer.

Please read below in case You or your Sister, Mum, Daughter, Granddaughter, Grandma, Cousin, Aunt, Friend are experiencing any of the below and are hesitant in getting it checked out.

Symptoms of Ovarian cancer are common among other, less serious, illnesses which is why so often it’s gets misdiagnosed or discovered at stage 3/4. The main five symptoms to be aware of are:

• Needing to wee more often

• Bloating or an increase in the size of your abdomen

• Pain in your tummy (abdomen) or lower part of your abdomen that doesn't go away

• Loss of appetite

• Feeling full quickly

Other symptoms such as back pain, changes in bowel habits, extreme tiredness, unexplained weight-loss or weight-gain may also be Ovarian cancer symptoms.

As so many of these symptoms cross over with other medical conditions, Ovarian cancer symptoms often develop gradually and can be easy to overlook. If symptoms don’t improve, book an appointment with your GP at your earliest convenience.

My Mum was diagnosed with Stage 3 Ovarian Cancer in September last year. The news shocked us all and quite suddenly all our lives were turned upside down with the uncertainty that laid ahead. Two weeks after her diagnosis, she underwent debunking surgery followed by 6 sessions of Chemotherapy. She lost all her hair and eyelashes, her energy levels at an all time low, daily nausea, persistent headaches, itchy skin and shaky hands.

She is now receiving lifelong medication to keep the cancer at bay. Fortunately, she is responding incredibly well to the treatment.

We hear the word Cancer all the time, so many people are affected by it in some way and yet it’s still a conversation so few of us are having openly. Despite having a very big and loving family, I personally have struggled with how to manage my emotions and find ways to help support my Mum. I wanted to raise money for the charity that has supported my Mum.

Onik and I will be taking part in the Run Norwich 10k on Sunday 8th September, all money raised will go to the Big C who have been an integral part of supporting my Mum and her husband. It’s a small way of showing our gratitude and thanks for everything they do.

My Mum has started attending a monthly support group that is held at the N&N Hospital, specifically for women with Ovarian Cancer. She has started making beautiful teal ribbons to raise awareness.

If you are in a position to donate, please give as much or little as you can. Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and for your generous donation.

Abbie & Onik x