My brave, full of character Dad (Mike Wilson)was diagnosed with cancer of the Oesophagus in October 2016. This was a massive shock to us and told with treatment he would have a year to live. 

He carried on with playing bowls, volunteering at the Soldiers Museum,being an amazing Papa to my 6 year old twin boys,just his usual life. He confidently told all who he met, friends,family and strangers I am dying! He did not shy away from his cancer. He planned his funeral, choose we were to leave the funeral service to 'Dancing Queen'. He did get worse and things did slow down. We discovered the cancer was also in his lungs. 

At the end of December we were first introduced to my Dad's new consultant at Sue Ryder. He was amazing. He supported my Mum regularly emailing her, ringing her up as she had taken over full time care of my Dad and all of his medical needs. He took my phone calls and answered my concerns/questions. We had someone who very quickly got to know us as a family and helped/support through all of the pain and confusion we were going through.My Mum and I eventually got to breaking point with the care of Dad. So, scared and worried about his weight loss and deteriorating body.We went to visit the Sue Ryder Hospice, they were so caring,so understanding and we knew this would be the best place for Dad. A day later off Dad went into the Sue Ryder ambulance -commenting the ride on the stretcher was the most comfortable he had been for ages! 

Sadly,Dad passed away early morning on Saturday 21st January 2017.We were with him, as he had wanted. He surprised us and the nursing staff. We truly believe he knew Sue Ryder hospice made him comfortable and would help those of us with him deal with the loss and shock. 

Sue Ryder Leckhampton were just fantastic. We were welcomed with open arms at the most devastating moment of our lives. The hospice don't just see a patient, they see and care about the whole family.

I knew I had to channel my grieve into something positive and would help others going through this. We reached a fundraising target of £1000 after 6 months after Dad had passed away for Sue Ryder. 

This will be my third year of taking part in the hike- Our team Let’s Hike for Mike. 

We will be dressed in neon and colourful lights walking in a marshalled 10K route around Cheltenham that will lead us through the tranquil hospice grounds, softly lit with festoon lights and candles, where we will have the opportunity to remember our loved ones. 

My Dad loved bright colours, music (especially Abba) and fun- so for him the show will go on as I get my walking shoes on! 

Please help our Hike for Mike and ongoing fund-raising for Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice. 

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Sue Ryder supports people through the most difficult times of their lives. Whether that’s a terminal illness, the loss of a loved one or a neurological condition – we’re there when it matters. Our doctors, nurses and carers give people the compassion and expert care they need to help them live the best life they possibly can.