Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Back in November 2021 we had the devastating news that my Dad (Trevor Christopher) had cancer, specifically mesothelioma. To say it was shock for us all is an understatement.  Although Dad had been back and forth to the Drs with his symptoms, they had been put down to a number of lesser illnesses.  None of us expected it to turn out to be cancer.

Mesothelioma is an asbestos related cancer that affects the linings of some of the bodies organs, in this case the lungs. There is no cure right now but treatment can help with symptoms.  It's been many years since Dad worked with asbestos so it's hard to get our head around the fact that it's only now showing in such a negative way.

The hospital put them in contact with Hasag and a lovely lady called Lynne came out to see them.  The support that she and the rest of the team have shown to us all has been incredible.  Still trying to get our heads around the diagnosis and what that means, the team at Hasag were there to make sure my parents understand what this illness meant, what benefits they were entitled to (even down to having forms filled in ready for dad to sign for his blue badge), help with finding a solicitor to pursue a case against former employers.  Allowing us a family to concentrate on Dad and what the future holds for us.

As well as the initial visit Hasag have held regular coffee mornings and catch-ups that have given sufferers and their families a chance to meet, swap stories and generally support each other along with having discussions around new therapies, any breakthroughs and medical help and advice.

The team at Hasag have been amazing and to be honest I've no idea how we would have coped and are still coping without their help.  So much so, that I want to say thank you and raise some much needed funds for them.  Anyone that knows me, know's that I'm rather sporty, taking part in marathons and even ultras.  But I felt that I needed to make this a real challenge and have taken on one of the most physically challenging events, that of an Ironman triathlon.  This will involve completing; a 2.4 mile swim, followed by a 112 mile bike ride and then finally a marathon distance run (26.2 miles).  Realistically this will take be around 16-17 hours to complete.  

Ironman Italy will take place in Cervia on September 16th this year and base training has started already.  I'll look to keep adding regular updates as to how this is going.  Am sure they'll be good days and am some bad days and times were I want to give up.  But knowing I'll be raising money for Hasag will, am sure, keep me going.

So please donate to this wonderful charity and help me to show my appreciation for everything they have done so far and the help I'm sure they'll continue to give in the future.  No matter how little you have spare to give, it all helps so much!

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.