This September, as a family, we will walk on fire to raise money for Abby's Heroes - yep, even Lily (14), Jake (11) and Aria (10)! Eeek!

September is childhood cancer awareness month and this September marks 5 years since a tiny pea-sized lump first appeared below then, 9 year old Lily's right knee which 3 months later we found out was cancer - an undifferentiated soft tissue sarcoma. 5 years on and Lily has no evidence of disease but a variety of long term health issues as a result of the treatment.

Abby's Heroes supported the whole family throughout Lily's treatment, financially and mentally, and continue to do so, with days out and siblings days for Jake and Aria. As many of you know, I also work for the charity now and am honoured to be part of a charity that supports families at such a devastating time.

The support we received made a huge difference and we know personally that every penny donated will offer a glimmer of light in the darkest of times to families under the care of Piam Brown and the Teenage and Young Adults Wards at University Hospital Southampton.

The whole ethos of Abby's Heroes is to place our arm around the shoulders of these families and support them during this journey. We offer Financial Grants to help with the financial burden of having your child diagnosed, Practical support, Memory Making grants, Welfare Packs, Counselling service for the entire family, as well as two evening meals and a picnic lunch every week. Every single penny is vital to help Abby's Heroes provide these services.