Ruby is the girl next door, Ewan’s friend. They have known each other for longer than they can remember. Shortly after starting school together, Ruby’s mum noticed a lump on her leg. Unfortunately this transpired to be Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma and imaging showed that it had spread. After months of chemotherapy and radiotherapy Ruby was in remission. A few weeks ago Ruby had a sore back and her rhabdo has relapsed. She now faces more investigations and a second round of treatment.

She has taken every step of treatment in her stride. Every radiotherapy session was done without an anaesthetic, unheard of at the age of 4. Chemotherapy was approached with a smile. The news of more treatment, possibly at hospital even further from home, is greeted with excitement of a new playroom to be discovered. Ruby and her family are inspirational. 

I run for Ruby, and for research into alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma. Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma is rare, but devastating. The Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Group have a Rhabdomysarcoma fund. Through “Super Ruby’s Rhabdo Raiser” (Ruby’s named fund), every penny raised will go into research in alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma. CCLG ring-fence the funds raised, and absorb the administrative costs. Every penny raised through my run will go into Ruby’s fund. There are trials ongoing at the moment that give Ruby and her family hope for the future. Research gives the best chance of that hope becoming a reality.

Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group is a leading children's cancer charity and the UK and Ireland's professional association for those involved in the treatment and care of children with cancer.Each week in the UK and Ireland, more than 30 children are diagnosed with cancer. We bring together professionals to ensure all children receive the best possible treatment and care. We support young patients and their families with our award winning, expert information. We fund and support research into childhood cancers.