In May 2025, I have challenged myself to take on the Norfolk Coast Mighty Hike to help raise money for people living with cancer.

Seven years ago, today I was told my metastatic malignant melanoma had returned for the sixth time. On this occasions though it was more serious as it had reoccured in my right lung, giving me, my first Stage 4 diagnosis.

Malignant melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. When I had my original diagnosis in January 2013, there were no viable treatments available. Three months after my first Stage 4 diagnosis I had my second, which was inoperable. I was fortunate enough to be given the chance to be treated with a new range of drugs called Immunotherapy. The plan was for me to receive 24 monthly treatments. The first four treatments were a combination of two drugs, followed by twenty single drug treaments. I was warned that the treatment would be like playing Russian roulette. With two bullets!

I managed the four double treatments, not without side effects, and two rounds of the single drug, before the toxicity meant the treatment was stopped. Unfortunately the side effects didn't, some of which I still live with.

In December 2024, I finally made it to 5 years clear of cancer. Along the way I have had a lot of love and support from family, friends and colleagues.

The staff at Norwich and Ipswich have been amazing, and since day one I have been supported by the same Macmillan Clinical Nurse Specialist Rachel.

So if you can spare some pennies (or more) so there can be a few more Rachel's it would be much appreciated.

Thank you!