Having completed the London Landmarks Half Marathon and the London Marathon in April 2023 and again the London Landmarks Half Marathon in April 2024, I embark once again on the London Landmarks Half Marathon on Sunday 6 April 2025. My fundraising efforts for the RVC continue.

We found and homed Cherry, a beautiful little Maltese, (and her sister, Saffy, who is still with us) in 2017 and they came home with us when they were just 12 weeks old. Cherry was an amazing dog with a wonderful happy personality. She gave us so much joy, love and happiness.

Sadly, in June 2021 she was diagnosed with inflammatory meningitis and was subsequently treated by the RVC, having regular chemotherapy and daily steroids. She endured many long journeys to the hospital and overnight stays, as well as regular trips to our local vets for ongoing tests, overnight stays and various treatments. Our local vets;The Laurels, Bromley, were fabulous and showed a level of care and support that went above and beyond.

Cherry relapsed in August 2022 and the following 4 months were challenging for her, with the chemotherapy increasing and suffering complications as a result of the treatment and the medication. The RVC couldn't have been more supportive and caring. All the staff there were always so accommodating and the vets in particular so knowledgeable in dealing with Cherry's illness.

Sadly, we lost Cherry on the 23rd December 2022. We were all with her. Cherry and Saffy were our first dogs and we could not have asked for more loving and amazing pets, a real part of our family. Cherry was such a happy, joyful and delightful dog, loving life to the fullest. She was just adorable.

We are grateful to all staff at the RVC for the care and love they gave Cherry. They allowed us to have her for 18 months longer than we might otherwise have had. They do an exceptional job and we thank you for all you did for Cherry.

I would like to continue to raise as much as I can for a pet hospital who provide such amazing care and I thank you for your support.

Thank you for your support.

Barbara x

The Animal Care Trust exists to support the Royal Veterinary College's wide range of clinical, research and educational activities aimed at improving animal health and care. Your generous donations help us to support over 20,000 poorly pets a year, giving our patients access to innovative treatments and the best facilities to keep them comfortable while they are in our care. It is only thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our supporters.