On Saturday 3rd May, a group of my best friends and I are embarking on a tough 26 miles marathon trek across the steep terrain of the South Downs to raise funds for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity in memory of my husband, Jaideep Thatai, who died of cancer related causes last summer aged just 41.

Jaideep's Story

In early 2018, aged 34, Jaideep was diagnosed with high-grade thymic carcinoma; an extremely rare and aggressive cancer that often goes undetected until it is more advanced. He was placed in the incredible care of the Royal Marsden, a world leading cancer centre, and Jaideep underwent rigorous treatment including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and, once the cancer was more advanced, palliative medication.

Jaideep showed amazing bravery and strength throughout his journey, and thanks to the dedicated team led by Professor Popat, he received personalised care that allowed him to maintain a good quality of life for over 6.5 years after his initial diagnosis. He was a wonderful dad to our two children, Jonah (10) and Sami (7), he loved to travel and was extremely passionate about sports!

Tragically, last summer, whilst we were on our family holiday in France, Jaideep became seriously unwell and passed away only days later.

The Cause – The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity

I am immensely thankful to the Royal Marsden for all that they did for Jaideep and have seen first-hand how pioneering and personalised cancer care can transform patients experiences and outcomes. Your donations will go directly to supporting patients through their diagnosis and treatment, funding clinical trials that drive breakthroughs in cancer care, and ensuring that more families receive the compassionate care they deserve.

Whilst Jaideep was very private about his diagnosis, he donated regularly to the Royal Marsden and fundraised for various other charities and causes throughout his lifetime. I think he would have been so proud that we are fundraising for the Royal Marsden in his memory.

You'll Never Walk Alone

I will be trekking alongside my friends Hannah, Claire, Carmen and Katherine as Team “You’ll Never Walk Alone”. This holds special meaning as Jaideep was a massive Liverpool supporter, and each step we take together across the 26 mile route will remind us of his determined and unwavering spirit and the very special place he will always hold in so many of our hearts.

26 miles in a single day across rugged terrain of the South Downs is no mean feat - we anticipate that it will take us between 10-12 hours to complete the course.

Help Us Reach Our Goal

Your generosity can make a monumental difference in the fight against cancer. Please join us in this journey by donating what you can - not just for Jaideep, but for every family facing the devastating challenges of cancer.

Thank you for reading our story and for any contribution you can make to support the Royal Marsden. Together, we can spread hope and make a difference to those who need it most.