Why’

It’s a word which is used nearly everyday of our lives, questioning which ever subject matter is being discussed. Why indeed did I embark on a Sub Arctic Marathon on Nordic Skis, which I’ve never even seen up close or used. When I told my partner June what my plans were, there was just this vacant look. When I told my Daughter Beth in front of her daughter Ava, my Granddaughter looked at her Mam and said ‘Why?’. I can’t really print on here what her reply was, thankfully Ava didn’t hear it.

The reason ‘Why’ I took on the challenge, I felt the only way I could be of any use is to raise some money. In this time of austerity many worth while Charities are struggling. The one that always leaves me angry and frustrated is Cancer.

Over the years, I’ve seen family, friends and their families, mates I served with before going into the Fire Service. Seeing the devastation it cruelty leaves behind, the bereavement and sense of loss, like any disease or illness. I ran a Snowdon Marathon a few years ago with my close friend’s Husband’s pic on one shoulder of my running top. On the other my former Boss’s wife, both knowing the friend’s who passed and their respective spouse’s. It felt they were with me on the run.

Recently I’ve friends who have been dealt the blow of being diagnosed, who every day battle with every aspect of life. Then there are the friends who fight to the bitter end, always leaving a huge void in the family or group of friends. The memories I have of a number of friends, one who passed recently in his mid 40’s, my close friend’s Niece at 39. It’s hanging on to these cherished memories.

So for me to complete the challenge in Northern Sweden, every step I took, every slide and the eventual falling over. Like the Snowdon Marathon i took part in on that day, I had a sense and feeling they were with me on the Challenge.

Thank you for reading this who ever you maybe, every one of us at some point has been touched by this awful disease. All I can say is just be kind to each other.