I am taking part in the Military vs Cancer fundraiser on 3rd June 2023 where I will be walking and canoeing the length of Loch Lomond - along with some other “keen” folk

In 1991 I joined the Royal Navy as one of the first sea going WRNS. While doing my weapons engineer training at HMS Collingwood, I met a young Scots lass by the name of Mags Devlin. We decided going home on a weekend was too much like hard work, so we used to stay behind and get up to “a wee bit of mischief” - we could tell a tale or 3!!

Mags ended up relocating to Sunderland after she married her matelot Jason Lewis. We lost touch but met each other again 4 years ago at a charity footy match.

Maggie discovered in 2022 that she had breast cancer. Despite undergoing a mastectomy, chemo and radiotherapy she never had a day off and qualified as a mental health nurse.

Only a matter of weeks after finishing her treatment, Mags discovered that the cancer had spread to her brain and is unfortunately, terminal. Mags is only 49, a mother of one, a nana of 2 and a lifelong partner of husband Jase.

Military vs Cancer have offered to help Maggie to try and help make her remaining time a lot more comfortable. I want to complete this challenge for the bravest, strongest, most inspirational woman I know. She’s an absolute warrior. It’s the least I can do. I love you Mrs

Please donate whatever you can afford to help this amazing charity #veteranshelpingveterans

UPDATE - my beautiful, strong, courageous friend lost her battle with cancer at 0600hrs on Monday 22nd May 2023. Stand down Jenny, your watch is done. Back now in the arms of your beloved mum 💔