By way of background, after several hospital visits and treatments for what we initially thought was anaemia, my mum was diagnosed in 2014 with Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS), a rare form of blood cancer. Following her diagnosis, and whilst I was studying for my master’s degree, I would take mum for regular blood transfusions, biopsies and tests at Kings College Hospital (Kings), London on a weekly basis. However, in less than six months, her health rapidly deteriorated to the point at which her only option was to undertake a bone-marrow transplant.

After two months in isolation within the hospital ward and a transplant completed, a light at the end of the tunnel began to appear, including a few new strands of hair on mum’s head which I had somehow become accustomed to. Despite making initial signs of improvement, my mum developed an aggressive infection and her health deteriorated significantly in just a few weeks. As a result, she was admitted into intensive care at Kings, where she stayed for several months before passing away.

Throughout this period, I will never forget my mum’s resilience and relentless attitude to fight against her cancer. Knowing how weak she felt most days due to having a low blood count, and supporting her during her treatments, she always carried a smile and was an inspiration.

In memory of my mum and to support those in the fight against MDS, I am seeking to raise greater awareness about this disease by getting involved in MDS UK’s 20 for 20 Challenge. From Monday 01 November 2021, I will be rowing 10km every day for the next 20 days (200km) using my indoor rowing machine to raise awareness and funds for MDS UK, a small charity which provides patients with invaluable support. All donations will go towards funding clinical trials of new drugs and key research, including patient support and treatments such as blood transfusions, chemotherapy and stem-cell transplants.

As an Ambassador for MDS UK, I would be truly grateful for any donation you can make to help beat this disease. Every pound (£) donated to MDS UK will not only help to support families and their loved ones undertaking cancer treatment, but also to share precious moment together for longer which we all take for granted.

MDS UK is the only charity in the UK providing vital support, information, advice and conducting research solely into Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) - a rare blood cancer where the bone marrow fails to produce healthy blood cells.We are a small charity that needs YOUR support to maintain our services!