Some of you know that Natalie's Mum, Theresa, had been living with pancreatic cancer for the last 18 months or so. It is such a massive relief to say that she has completed her treatments and is now cancer free!

After three months of chemo and five sessions of radiotherapy at Weston Park hospital to try to shrink the cancer, Sheffield’s surgical team confirmed in May that it was still too risky for them to operate. Thankfully Mum was referred to Manchester Royal Infirmary, where they have different skills and expertise, for her case to be discussed by the multi disciplinary team.

On 22nd July, Mum had a major nine-and-a-half hour operation (what a nail biting day) which was successful in removing the cancer! This incredibly complex surgery was performed by a team led by Italian surgeon Mr de’ Liguori-Carino.

Following surgery, Mum received critical care in the high dependency unit in Manchester for five days. She stayed at the hospital for just over five weeks in total, at one point needing further surgery due to healing complications. Honestly - it was a scary time.

But…Mum is doing so well! We know how fortunate we are to be able to say this. Distressingly, this disease is often caught too late, and even if caught early can be inoperable. During this journey, the nurses at Pancreatic Cancer UK charity have been really helpful and supportive. They have reliably been at the other end of the phone with practical advice and specialist information whenever we’ve needed it.

To say thank you and help them continue their vital work, Natalie and Joel will be fundraising for PCUK by running the London Landmarks Half Marathon - Natalie's first ever half marathon - on Sunday 6 April.

During the 13 miles, we will be thinking of Mum, Theresa, and how strong and resilient she is 💪

Thank you all for your support x x x