Mum died of cancer in August 2013, just three months after diagnosis. Her illness took hold so quickly and we were all like rabbits caught in the headlights. Our Macmillan nurse Jinnie was nothing short of a guardian angel who helped us through the confusion with everything from sourcing a disabled parking badge and home help to liaising with health services to fast-track physio, occupational therapy, dietry help and pain relief. Jinnie's practical help and emotional support helped us all through a dark time. Thank you Macmillan.

PS My fit and feisty mother did a Snowdon charity walk with me and Dad in her 70s - I'll be raising a flask to you at the summit Mum! X