I was first diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma in 2011 and after relapsing 3 times my doctors gave me a really poor prognosis and told me my best chance of survival was a stem cell transplant. My sister wasn’t a match so I needed an unrelated donor. I was very fortunate that the charity Anthony Nolan found me a match from an amazing lady in Portugal. I had the transplant in May 2015 and although I have had some complications and side effects, I am happy to say that I am nearly 4 years in remission. I literally wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for Anthony Nolan and my own personal hero, a complete stranger who gave up a few hours of her time and her stem cells to save me. It was one of the most unexpected and frightening experiences of my life and there are no words to say how grateful I am to Anthony Nolan for finding me a match and facilitating the transplant.

Unfortunately there are still many men, women and children with blood cancer who need a stem cell/bone marrow transplant but run out of time because a match can’t be found. It costs £60 for Anthony Nolan to add each person to the bone marrow register and they are a charity, which is why it is super important to raise money for them.  

I was very privileged in 2018 to stand on the sidelines and cheer on the fantastic people who took part in the Great North Run to raise funds for Anthony Nolan. They were so inspiring that I have decided to take part in the GNR in 2019 to raise as much money and awareness for Anthony Nolan as I can.

Any sponsors, no matter how big or small, will be massively appreciated. And if you are eligible, please sign up to the bone marrow register. Things have changed over the years and for 90% of people, to donate cells is just like giving blood. It’s painless, only takes a few hours and by doing this you can give the selfless, priceless gift of saving a life. 

Thank you