Sadly, my Dad lost his fight against bone marrow cancer, transverse Miletus, Thrombocytopenia and Chronic myelomonocytic Leukaemia on Wednesday 18th June 2014. His courage, bravery and sense of humour remained until the end and he will be deeply missed.

Over 6 months ago Dad was diagnosed with a rare form of bone marrow cancer, Systemic Mastocytosis. Very little is known about the disease and it is thought that only 1 in 150,000 people suffer with it in England. 

Since the diagnosis, he developed other acute symptoms which have caused Transverse Miletus, Thrombocytopenia and Chronic myelomonocytic Leukaemia. 

The knowledge and commitment of the staff who looked after Dad on Ward 19 at Heartlands was impeccable. Currently, they are fundraising for a new blood analyser which is set to help many patients fighting blood disorders such as Dad's.

Please donate, however big or small, it will all help the fantastic work that is carried out on Ward 19 - Haematology & Oncology Ward  (and throughout hospitals across the country). You never know when you may need the care and guidance offered by medical professionals and we are extremely lucky to have the services of the NHS as many people around the world struggle to afford any level of healthcare at all.

This is my first (and possibly last!) Sprint Triathlon, consisting of a 750m open water swim, 20KM road bike ride and a 5KM run. It is a big challenge and I'd love to reach my goal of raising £1000 for a charity very close to my heart. 

Thanks for reading and supporting me. 

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