2 weeks into lockdown in 2020 my mum got the devastating news that the cancer that she’d had removed from her bladder 3 years previously had returned and was inoperable, and so began the cycles of chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiotherapy to keep it at bay for as long as possible. 

Fighting cancer at any age, at any time is a difficult and frightening prospect but for all those that have been going through treatment in the last 2 years, attending their appointments alone without the support of family, it’s been especially tough. Sadly mum lost her battle with cancer in April 2022, however the  essential treatment she received meant that we were able share Christmas 2021 together, something which the whole family were  incredibly grateful for.

Cancer Research UKs vital work helps to find new preventions and treatments against this awful disease. But we need to find new treatments, ones that target the cancer and allow people to live a normal life without such debilitating side effects and more ways to prevent the disease it in the first place. 

Read more about their work here https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/our-progress

In 2022, tied in with a need to regain some control over my own health and fitness, I will be carrying out a series of challenges to help raise money for this important cause. 

My current challenge plan is

January - Dry January (what the heck?!) 

February - Cancer Research’s Run 56 Miles in February Challenge  (I mean, in for a penny,  in for a pound!) 

March - Rother Valley  5km (yes I really do hate running, there has to be a starting point)

July  - Manchester Race for Life  10km (double the distance, what am I thinking?)

October - Manchester half marathon (this currently seems like a ludicrous idea! 😬)

However much or little you can spare, every penny will  be a huge help. You can follow my progress on Strava and Facebook and I’ll be adding further challenges along the way, so do keep checking back. 

Love Jo x