In 2023 we sadly said goodbye to my Godmother, and one of my Mum's best friends, Andrea.

In October 2021, Andrea visited her GP with what she thought was a frozen shoulder and was referred for MSK physiotherapy.

Following the loss of use in her arm this then lead to blood tests and by May 2022 was diagnosed with Myeloma.

From July 2022, Andrea faced a challenging few months with chemotherapy, reactions and stem cell treatment, but handled this with inspiration, dignity and positivity. Always checking in with her friends, family and her beautiful grandson Ralphy, her new baby granddaughter, Orla, who was born in the middle of her treatment. These are the people she loved the most and the ones she was so determined to fight this for.

In 2023, an x-ray and a biopsy showed her in semi remission, the Myeloma was still there but it was inactive. At this time, Andrea returned to driving, visiting friends for lunch and doing what she did best.

This is my last memory of Andrea, having a coffee and cake and she looked amazing (and put my non manicured nails to shame).

Just under two weeks later, Andrea was admitted to hospital and tumours were found on her liver. Andrea had relapsed, very quickly, very suddenly and for many people this was, and still is, the hardest bit to comprehend. So many whys, and so many unanswered questions.

With her family around her, Andrea slipped away on the 24th April 2023, and on the 19th May - with her gorgeous family we said our goodbyes.

This will be my third marathon, and for someone who is incredibly special to my Mum, and who as a Godmother was unbelievably kind, generous and considerate.

Andrea, this is for you. You are very missed.

To anyone who wishes to donate, thank you very much in advance. All donations will go direct to Myeloma UK, to support with research and treatments for this devastatingly incurable disease.

Thank you,

Megan x