In March 2018 my Dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. We were lucky he and Mum lived close to St George's where he received excellent treatment. However, the side effects meant it was difficult for him to leave the house. It turned into a beautiful summer and he pottered round the garden, keeping it looking beautiful and entertaining visitors. We felt blessed to have those months with him, he was relaxed and able to see the silver lining. As autumn set in, Dad's illness took hold and he became confined to the house and eventually his bed. He continued to receive excellent NHS care, and I will be eternally grateful to St Raphael's Hospice who supported my mum, my siblings and me in caring for him at home. He died peacefully on the 17th December 2018. 

Dad was an amazing man, he touched so many lives with his charm, humour, creativity, kindness and commitment to family and society. So I'm running the London Marathon in memory of my lovely dad, and also my aunt Ann, his sister who also died of pancreatic cancer in 2012, and my uncle Pat who also died of cancer in October 2018. Like my dad, both Ann and Pat were amazing people and important role models in my life. It will be an honour to run for them all.

The Pancreatic Cancer bit: Pancreatic cancer is a tough one but we’re taking it on. It is tough to diagnose, tough to treat, tough to research and tough to survive. For too long this disease has been sidelined. We want to make sure that everyone affected by it gets all the help they need. We are supporting those affected by the disease, investing in ground breaking research, lobbying for greater recognition of pancreatic cancer and being a voice for everyone involved in the fight. Together we are taking on pancreatic cancer.

Please donate to this important cause!