Well this is pretty s**t isn't it? To those of you that don't know, I met Morag in October 2007. By the end of that November we had pretty much moved in together. She is the only serious relationship I have ever had; she is my best friend, mother to our amazing 3 year old son, Jamie, and frankly, I cannot imagine life without her.  I'm ashamed to admit it has taken this to realise just how much I love her and how happy she makes me. The idea of not having her with me every day causes real physical pain in my stomach. 

Last month (March), one day before we completed on our first house we received the devastating news that Morag has Stage 4 bowel cancer, meaning it has spread to her lymph nodes and that there are secondary tumours in her liver. Finding out has been incredibly traumatic for us both, and I honestly don't know how I find the will to get out of bed every day. Morag has been ridiculously strong and brave, and an absolute inspiration to me. Annoyingly though, this makes her even more lovable!

I am still struggling to come to terms to the hand that fate has dealt us, and as someone who has a history of depression and anxiety I need to do something to help me support her and myself through this journey. By pledging to run 10K I have given myself a physical and mental goal, and at the same time I can raise money for a charity which aims to help and prevent people going through this kind of nightmare. 

It is proven that a positive mental attitude gives better outcomes, so I have to be positive to give Morag the best chance. I am absolutely terrified but determined to do all I can for us. By pledging your support you help get my fat ass off the sofa and running for Morag, Jamie and myself. 

Morag has had a bumpy ride to get treatment started. She has her first Chemotherapy scheduled for Thursday the 18th of April. If you are religious, please send your prayers, if you are not, please send your positive thoughts. 

Bowel cancer typically occurs in people over the age of 50, but it does happen to younger people. Unfortunately due to the rareness of it happening at this age, approximately 60% of patients under 50 are diagnosed at stage 3 or 4. Do not be prude, make sure you check your poo and look out for the main signs and symptoms of bowel cancer. These are changes in bowel habit, blood in your stool, hard lumps in the tummy, excessive/unexplained weight loss, extreme tiredness for no reason. 

While you are at it, make sure your are checking your balls and boobs for bumps too!

Much love,

Ian xx