Three generations of the Swain family have been, and continue to be, devastated by the ravages of cancer.

Right now, both mother (Sharon) and daughter (Kathryn) are being simultaneously treated by the same consultant at the Gloucester Oncology Unit. The guys there are doing a bloody marvellous job, so we wanted to give something back as a 'thank you' to this amazing facility.

On 11 August, three generations of the Grainger family, Sharon's aunty Marge (nee Swain, 74), cousin Lisa (53) and second cousin Ellie (25), will each be doing a tandem skydive in aid of Focus, the charitable fund for the Gloucestershire Oncology Centre.

Hopefully, with this endeavour we can help (a) to raise a smile during these dark days and (b) raise some money for a fabulous charity.

In July 2017 Sharon was diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer for which she has had to endure major surgery and heavy-dosage chemotherapy. Before Sharon could even finish her treatment, Kathryn, Sharon’s daughter aged 27 (who has been nursing her Mum), was also diagnosed with ovarian cancer. 

Kathryn has had initial surgery to remove a 30cm tumour and one of her ovaries. She had another operation in June to have her other ovary, and her womb, removed. A devastating realisation for Kathryn and her fiancé, Nick, that they won't be able to have children. Only last week Kathryn was further advised that the cancer is also endometrial so a PET scan and immediate chemo are being scheduled.

The bad news and ensuing misery seems relentless.

One could argue that this tragic series of events is attributable to their gene pool, or you might say it’s just bad luck, or even a coincidence. But consider this. Whilst trying for Sharon in 1964, Diane’s GP prescribed her an ‘anti-miscarriage’ medication called DES. Is this rogue drug (now known as 'the silent Thalidomide’), culpable?

I ask you to please spend a few minutes online to read about DES and
its toxic legacy. Either of these web links are good starting points: https://desdaughter.com/ or https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/medical-treatments/des-exposure.html

The evidence overwhelmingly points to the fact that DES has inflicted, and continues to inflict, so much misery – not only on the Swains, but on tens of thousands of people around the world. Its insidious, destructive legacy could continue generation after generation, yet no government or pharmaceutical company is taking any responsibility for the Frankenstein they have created.

All we can do is help shine a light so please support our charity skydive and give what you can but hurry, before we lose our nerve and change our minds!

The cost of the skydives are being covered by Marge, Lisa and Ellie, and will not be deducted from any monies raised. Thank you for your anticipated support.