Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

So, I have never been the best with words, however I still wanted to put something down on paper (virtual as it is).

I want to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support for the care and compassion they showed Mum and our family throughout the toughest of times as a thank you but also to make steps in doing something constructive that will help me heal from the loss of one of my heroes.

My Mum, Gina, was born on 20 February 1955 in Mtarfa, Malta, and grew up in St Julians before meeting my dad, Michael, in November 1977. Soon after my parents got engaged and married on 19 August 1978. Mum had two sons, my older brother, Spencer on 18 June 1979 came first before I was welcomed to the world on 30 June 1983.

Mum lived her life for her family and if i was to describe her in three words... CARING, SELFLESS and an INSPIRATION all spring to mind. Mum always put others first and sacrificed so much for those around her to make a success of themselves.

Apart from family and friends, Mum’s other great love was food and made a career of it working for Barkers in Northallerton for near enough 25 years before having to retire. Mum made the best Lasagna, Apple Crumble and Sunday Roasts, especially Christmas dinner which in all my years I have never missed once. Top of Mums favourite foods was pasta… any… all… pasta.

Mum was diagnosed with cancer in January 2020 which came as terrible news to us all, she fought and battled with it until sadly passing away on 19 March 2021. Mum fought what I have learnt is a non discriminatory, horrendous disease with DIGNITY, LOVE and LAUGHTER.

I can genuinely say the loss of Mum has changed my perspective on life massively. Some days are worse than others, but when I do stop to think, or a subtle reminder creeps up out of nowhere, it chokes me up everytime!

Do not for a second take your loved ones for granted, show them you love them anyway you can and don’t have regrets.

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