Dear All, 

Apologies note. We have collectively, each and every one of us, had a tough few years. I sincerely hope we are out of the health issues that have plagued the world. I wish I could say that we are out of the economic issues! 

Many of you will remember that in 2013 I ran the London Marathon for Bowel Cancer UK in honour of my late Mother. The amount raised was staggering and so generous for a young man (me) who really is not made for running the length of rugby field let alone 26+ miles of London’s street. 

Sadly, in March 2019 my Father passed away from a form of Pancreatic cancer and in effort to make conversation and lighten his last few days, I mentioned that I would run (walk, amble, wobble) the marathon as I did for Mum. Hoping he would say “thank you, don’t bother’; However, he to my surprise muttered ‘good’. He always was envious of the power that Mum had over me and I can only feel the muttered ‘good’ was his way of getting the last word over Mum! Competitive to the end. 

As a result, here I am again attempting to get my frame around London in a few weeks. I am hoping that Uncle Bulgaria, the FA Cup, numerous Rhinos’ and other incredible people dressed in wonderful outfits don’t beat me once again to the line. I am certainly past my prime and way over my racing weight. I hope the handicapper will take this into account when I next enter by disqualifying me. 

Dad was an incredible man. He was taken from us in three short weeks from diagnosis to passing.  His doctors and specialists were the most amazing, talented modest and humane people you could wish to meet.

I, of course, whilst taken aback by the news on that grim day in February 2019 was asking questions. What I discovered was that more than half of people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer die within 3 months. This is just an earth-shattering statistic for those that are diagnosed with PC and all those related to them. It was difficult during that time to be positive when there is not even a pin prick of light to give hope. 

Survival rates have improved enormously for most cancers, yet for pancreatic cancer, this is not the case. Pancreatic Cancer UK is dedicated to taking on this injustice using every possible means. They're supporting people with pancreatic cancer now, campaigning, and funding vital research to transform the future. Help them to make the breakthroughs that people with pancreatic cancer so desperately need.

Thank you for taking the time to read this note. I wish you all and all connected to you good health. 

This really is the last marathon I do. Promise.

May Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II rest in peace and wishing King Charles III success and good health. 

Thank you from the bottom of my heart. 

Barney

PS – Up to his diagnosis Dad had only ever had one serious health issue - a sore tooth at 82 years old!