Dear Friends and Family,

I am writing to share my journey as on the 29th April I will embark on a 106km (65.8653 mile) ultra run around the Isle of Wight in memory of my aunt, Jane.

It's 106km around the hilly coastline of the island, meaning over 2.5 marathons, not to mention over 2000 metres of up/down, which is like climbing up and down Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England. The race starts at 8am in the morning, and it's likely to take around 15-24 hours, which means I'll be running a good chunk of it in the dark!

I enjoy running, but as you can imagine, this sort of distance will be a whole new challenge for me. The 106km route will take me through some of the most beautiful, but brutal, landscapes on the Isle of Wight. Despite being notoriously difficult, both mentally and physically, I am determined to complete it not only to remember Jane by doing something which would have made her proud, but by also raising money for a good cause whilst doing so. Jane loved walking long distances herself and nothing made her happier than exploring out in the countryside on a nice day.

My aunt's story is a reminder of the importance of early detection and the impact that a GP's decisions can have on a patient's outcome. Unfortunately, my aunt was let down by her GP on numerous occasions and her diagnosis came too late. This is why I believe it's crucial to know the warning signs and to advocate for ourselves when it comes to our health.

This run is not only a personal challenge for me, but also an opportunity to raise awareness for early diagnosis of bowel cancer. Early detection is crucial in the fight against this disease and I want to use this run to raise awareness and encourage people to get checked. 

I have set up this JustGiving page to raise funds for Bowel Cancer UK, in the hopes that others may benefit and avoid the loss that we feel in Jane's absence. Your support and generosity will help make a difference in the lives of those affected by bowel cancer and bring us one step closer to a future where no one dies from the disease.

Every donation, no matter how small, will bring me closer to my goal and will be a testament to my beautiful aunt. 

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I hope that you will join me on this journey and help me make a difference in the world by raising awareness for early diagnosis of bowel cancer and raising money to the UK’s leading bowel cancer charity. The charity funds targeted research, provide expert information and support to patients and their families, educate the public and professionals about the disease and campaign for early diagnosis and access to best treatment and care.

I appreciate all of your support,

Charlotte

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