My brother, Sam was diagnosed with osteosarcoma (a rare type of bone cancer) in February 2021. Initially, he had been complaining of knee pain several months prior which was frustrating as he had just got back in the rhythm of running and fitness consistently post lockdown. Eventually, after numerous doctor's appointments Sam had an MRI scan to get to the bottom of his presumed meniscus tear. Eventually we finally received the long-awaited physio call with the results of the MRI, as I eavesdropped from the top of the stairs, eager to get out of my virtual A Level Maths Zoom lesson. Here we were met with the damning news, which was very difficult to receive, and the future unknown.

Hereafter, Sam undertook a lengthy course of chemotherapy as well as having a total knee replacement. Sam met this with an incredible amount of courage and optimism, most of the time, despite the adversity he faced. We were also very fortunate to have the support of wonderful family, friends, and a wider community who always helped to uplift Sam when times were tough.

I am running the London Marathon to help raise awareness about this disease and to raise vital funds for a charity which has such a remarkable impact, allocating funding for clinical research to improve the prognosis for future osteosarcoma patients.

Please do support me by donating. Every penny counts.