I can still vividly remember the moment Dave called me at work to tell me the sudden news he had bowel cancer. I was six months pregnant with Jack at the time and our world as we knew it was pulled apart. Within the next 6 months we were given the news that despite the numerous chemo cycles, two operations and radiotherapy treatments, Dave's diagnosis had become terminal. 

At that time we celebrated, not just the fact that Jack was born but that dave made it to the birth. The heartwarming sound of Oxford's radiotherapy department cheering down the phone when Jack was born will always be remembered, and the fact that Dave still made it to his appointment. He faced every challenge directly in the eye, every treatment offered, and every procedure. He fought long, and he fought hard for 4 years. Then the time came that we needed more support but in a different way. The hospice of st francis was there like a snuggly blanket on a cold winters day - a blanket of kindness, warmth and care. We felt instantly welcomed and valued - our needs mattered and were always considered. I want and hope everyone experiences such warmth, kindness and care when facing such a challenging time and so I have chosen to fundraise for the hospice of st francis, in memory of Dave, to enable others to access such support when its needed.

I have chosen to enter the Biggest Loser 2020, as throughout our family's cancer journey  I  unfortunately experienced sudden and excessive weight gain. A coping strategy maybe,  but it had its role at the time. I would now love to chase my son round the park without being completely out of breath, play footie with him more easily without fear of injury, race his cars around the flooring and get up easily afterwards. On a personal note,  I would like to build on my esteem, confidence and general wellbeing. I want to make positive, healthy changes to my lifestyle so that we can move forward together and embrace this next chapter and all that it holds for us.....and all the while raising money for this amazing charity.

The Hospice of St Francis provides FREE, specialist care to those who need it. They provide a place to thrive, and hand in the darkness, people to rely upon... they love what they do, and they love our support too. But they cant continue to provide this expert care without support from us, so i've committed to raising at least £500 for my part in this Challenge. It's not going to be easy; I need to overhaul my diet, change my exercise routines.. adapt my whole lifestyle! But with your donations, I will have excellent motivation to keep going. Please sponsor me however much you can. Thank you.