Our terrifying journey with cancer began in 2018 when my Dad was first diagnosed with throat cancer. Although we were really fortunate in that the cancer hadn't made him unwell, his severe treatment did, and this is where Maggie's first stepped in. I never took advantage of Maggie's at this time, but they were a wonderful support for my Dad not only on a 1:1 basis, but they also provided him with the opportunity to share his experience with others who were going through the same process. They also extended their loving support to my Dad's partner Jude who selflessly put her life on hold in order to care for my Dad. This support continued in the following years, but also gave my Dad the chance to reveal his story and the progress he'd made, to others whose stories were only now beginning.

   By the start of last year, continuing with his regular check ups, my Dad still remained cancer free. The whirlwind that was once his illness now seemed like a past nightmare I'd thankfully woken up from. However, this time last year new symptoms appeared which proved to be a different and unrelated cancer to before, and resulted in a new diagnosis in November.. and so the nightmare crept back into our reality.

   My Dad started his treatment in January in the hopes of controlling his symptoms for as long as possible, along with this came the never ending list of appointments, waiting rooms and possible side effects. This time round, I decided to try Maggie's for myself in an attempt to find solice and comfort. I was of course incredibly nervous on my first visit, but was immediately made to feel at home when the first thing I was asked was if I wanted a cup of tea. Maggie's provides an incredible array of support not only to cancer patients but to their loved ones also - from Art Therapy to Mindfulness, to simple talk therapy. It can even be a place of calm, to sit and relax whilst in between appointments. For me, Maggie's gave me a space to tell someone all of my fears and worries without the possibility of causing upset. Always validating these feelings and reminding me that whatever emotion or thought I have right now is okay. As someone who really struggles to be vulnerable, Maggie's made me feel safe, in all ways possible, and I'll never be able to express how thankful I am for that.

   So, during the month of May I'm going to be doing a cold water dip every day in the hopes of raising money for this wonderful centre. Our place of calm during the storm and a home away from home.