I was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia back in 2015, a quick diagnosis made in A and E and off I went to the ward to be cared for and treated, this is where I met Chantal a fellow AML patient. We were on D6 together and later regularly bumped into each other on E10 where we received daily treatment as outpatients, what a journey. Sadly Chantal passed away in August 2016 as she lost her battle with Leukaemia. Our paths only crossed for a short time but in that time we immediately became friends and supported one another on difficult times, we also experienced laughter and told each other stories about our families. We egged each other on when it was time to sink back the nasty concoction of medications provided in small shot glasses. We somehow found humour in the things that were going on for us even though it was such a challenge we kept each other giggling. A lovely friend, a passionate lady about her family and friends, forever missed.

This September 2 years on is blood cancer awareness month and I will be walking with friends in memory for Chantal. 

I am also raising the profile of a Worthy cause Anthony Nolan and remembering all the nurses, Drs and support staff that I came across at Addenbrookes hospital.

Myself and close friends will be walking from Addenbrookes via the backs of the colleges, then on to Longstanton. Making a pit stop in a pub en route for a small beverage...