Paul died in January 2009, age 38, following a brave 18-month fight against cancer. He left behind his wife, my close friend, Nicola, and their three-year-old son, Marcus. He was a wonderful husband, father and friend and will always be remembered.

Paul was treated at the Hospice in the Weald in Pembury, Kent in the weeks before he died.  The Hospice also did an amazing job supporting Nicola following his death.

To my friends, I would like each of you to make the most generous contribution you can, if not in memory of Paul, then because, frankly, I've paid out so much money to all of your charitable causes over the years that you owe me!  I would also like you to forward this link to five friends and ask them to donate.  You might also consider forwarding this to colleagues.

To others reading this page who may not know me, I would appreciate your generousity in supporting this worthy cause.  £5000 funds the Day Therapy Centre at the Hospice for two months, where 100 patients come every week and can have a massage, take part in Art Therapy, Music Therapy and other healing activities.  In other words, if just 1000 people donate 50 quid, 100 patients benefit!

Once you donate, JustGiving will send your money directly to the Hospice in the Weald and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate-- I raise more, while saving time and cutting costs for the Hospice.

So please dig deep and donate now.  I want to raise £100,000. Be a part of this and feel great that you've participated.

With love and thanks,

Melanie Batley

P.S. It's never too late to donate and no amount is too small.  You can donate from anywhere in the world.

P.P.S.  I'm raising money offline too, so if you feel more comfortable, you can send me a cheque. Email me at melanie.batley@hotmail.com to get the address.