On 23rd March 2023 my wonderful mother-in-law Karen Rowlands lost her battle with Pancreatic Cancer. She was 64 years old. Despite being diagnosed in the cancer's earlier stages, the location of the tumour made it in operable, leaving her to face chemotherapy and radiotherapy to slow the progress of the disease. She remained positive and resolute despite her prognosis and gave her love and time freely to those around her. She was inspirational as a Wife, Mother, Gran, friend and fighter. 

In memory of Karen I am running the London Marathon in 2024 with my sister-in-law Elly. Having never run anything close to this distance I see this as a huge challenge, especially after giving birth to my daughter in July 2023 which leaves me some way short of my normal fitness levels! However, the challenge feels like a fitting memory for an avid sportswoman who faced adversity with strength and courage. 

Pancreatic Cancer is the 10th most common cancer in the UK, but is the 5th most deadly, with only 25% of people surviving a year beyond diagnosis and only 5% of people making 10 years. It receives only 3% of cancer research funding in the UK and survival rates have not change significantly in the last 50 years. Research is the key to earlier diagnosis, better treatment options and improved outcomes for families facing this devastating disease. Any support you can give to this worthy cause is greatly appreciated and will keep me motivated as I face this challenge head on!