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On Saturday 20th June I will be braving the shave in memory of 3 very special people. My grandma, my dad and my nanna. 

In June 2015 my Grandma passed away at home with family by her side due to a brain tumour. Marie Curie provided valuable support both to my Grandma and us as a family during a very difficult time. This was the first time I had seen first hand the end of life care the amazing nurses at Marie Curie provide.

Move forward 9 months to March 2016 and my dad, Craig, was diagnosed with bladder cancer. Over the next 3 years he underwent surgery, chemotherapy and immunotherapy to battle his cancer all while still raising a young family.  During this time his mum was also diagnosed with terminal cancer. She also underwent chemotherapy but sadly it made her extremely poorly so the decision was made that she wouldn't receive anymore treatment. The 2 of them battled together, both still smiling to the end.

Sadly my dad lost his battle on 23rd December 2018 at home surrounded by his family. Myself, my sister and my step-mum cared for him at home with the support of St Barnabos and Marie Curie. In his final hours the care of the nurses, not only for my dad but for the whole family, really sticks in my mind. They were a shoulder to cry on, they knew exactly what to say and exactly how to explain what was happening and what would happen during the final stages.

My nanna lost her battle 6 months later on 20th June 2019, the day after what would have been my dads 53rd birthday. Once again the nurses from Marie Curie were there for my nanna and the wider family as we said our goodbyes. Both my dad and nanna were surrounded by so many people that loved them but sadly some people don't have that support network. This is where the work of Marie Curie is even more important as they give the patients that love, support and care and comfort at the end of their lives.

Those that know me well will know that every summer I joke I'm going to shave my hair off as it is so thick and hot. Well this summer I will finally brave it and do it in memory of these very special people and hopefully I will raise a lot of money for the incredible charity that is Marie Curie along the way.

It feels symbolic, this hair that has grown with me over the last 5 years through arguably the most difficult period of my life will be shaved off. A fresh start and a more positive future.

Please dig deep and support me if you can.

In memory of Joan Birch, Craig Todd and Diane Todd. Good night, god bless xxxxxxxxxx

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