On Saturday 3rd May, a group of my best friends and I are embarking on a tough marathon trek across the South Downs to raise money for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity in memory of my husband Jaideep Thatai who died of cancer related causes last summer aged just 41.

Our Story

In early 2018, Jaideep was diagnosed with thymic carcinoma, an extremely rare but aggressive type of cancer that forms in the thymus and goes largely undetected. He was placed in the care of the Royal Marsden, a world leading cancer centre, and underwent substantial treatment including surgery to remove the tumour, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and, once the cancer was more advanced, palliative medication. The incredible team led by Professor Popat, looked after Jaideep from diagnosis and all throughout his journey for over 6.5 years.

Jaideep showed amazing bravery and strength throughout his treatment journey, thanks to the care of the Royal Marsden staff and the pioneering treatment, Jaideep was able to enjoy a good quality of life; He was a wonderful dad to our two children Jonah (10) and Sami (6), he loved to travel and had a huge passion for sport.

Whilst he was very private about his illness, he was extremely generous and donated regularly to the Royal Marsden and fundraised for various other charities and causes throughout his lifetime. He would have been so proud that we are fundraising for the Royal Marsden in his memory, and would have been very grateful to everyone who donated.

The Charity

I am so grateful to the team at the Royal Marsden for all that they did for Jaideep and have seen first-hand what an impact pioneering and personalised cancer care can have on patients. The money we fundraise will support patients with their diagnosis and treatment, continue to provide personalised cancer care and help to fund clinical trials to bring about breakthroughs in cancer treatment.

In Jaideep's memory, myself and Hannah, Claire, Carmen and Katherine will be trekking as Team You’ll Never Walk Alone. It seems very fitting given that Jaideep was a massive Liverpool supporter. He is missed by us and so many others every day, and I know he will be with us every single step of the away.

Thank you so much for reading our story and for any donation you can make to the Royal Marsden.