On 1st March this year, my mum Tracey was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer which had already spread into her abdominal area and also on to the lining of her bowel. On that day we were told that the cancer was incurable and therefore my life along with my family’s changed dramatically. The first 4 weeks after diagnosis, mum spent 2 ½ weeks in 3 different hospitals where she was on the verge of complete kidney failure and then contracted septicaemia as well as dealing with cancer.

The first month after diagnosis was so difficult with the main priority being to stabilise mum rather than trying to treat her. 

Then after a month when she was strong enough she began an intensive 18 week course of Chemotherapy at Pinderfields hospital every Monday for around 5 hours and received her treatment intravenously. 

Mum finished her course of chemotherapy 3 weeks ago and throughout her treatment had to deal with some horrible side effects as well as the cancer. Throughout her treatment mum has showed immense strength and bravery to remain positive and fight this illness head on.
Currently her most recent CT scan and her blood tests have shown a significant improvement which is the best news we could have hoped for and overall she feels much better than she did at the time of diagnosis. We know that medicines, treatments and the level of knowledge is improving at a rapid pace and coupled with her mental strength we continue to remain positive as she is absolutely amazing in every way.

Cancer is a horrendous illness that affects most families. This year has been and is continuing to be so tough on us all, however, what is truly sad is that we as a family are not an exceptional case, we are just one of thousands of families going through such an horrendous ordeal. Therefore, this Saturday, along with my dad Chris I have decided to attempt the Ride 24 cycle challenge. Ride 24 is a 315 mile cycle ride from Newcastle to London which is to be completed within 24 hours. We will depart Newcastle at 10.30am Saturday morning and hopefully ride into London at 10.30am Sunday, spending the full day and night in the saddle. This is by far the hardest thing I have ever done in my life and looking at the current forecast of rain and headwind all the way it has just got even tougher. However, if I am only half as strong as my mum is and fight like she has I am confident I can complete this colossal challenge. The reason I am taking part in such a difficult event is to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support. Macmillan are an amazing organisation who have supported my family along with many others throughout the tough times. Mum has had amazing support from the breast cancer team at Pinderfields Hospital, however, we sometimes forget its not only the person fighting this disease but also their family. My dad has found the Macmillan Team to have been a great support to him . They have been there for him to ask questions or just simply to have a chat and a cup of tea. I understand I have asked for sponsorship in the past and people are asking for sponsorship for lots of different worthy causes all the time, therefore I don't want anyone to feel pressurised into donating, as little as £5 will make a huge difference in helping Macmillan continue the amazing work they do in supporting family’s with cancer.

Thank you for reading our story