So here we go again! My 4th walk, Ellie's 2nd and all done in memory of a wonderful mum and nana.

Mum was first diagnosed with cancer 20 years ago this year and managed to beat it.

Completely out of the blue in March 2007 she was diagnosed again and the fight began - again. Through out it all she maintained her love of life, always smiling and a source of inspiration to her family and friends.  The option of not beating it didn't exist as far as she was concerned.

Then in 2008 the cancer spread to her bones and whilst she knew there was no cure she was hopeful that it could be managed with medication.  And this is where Nightingale House came in - providing vital palliative care in an environment that was wonderfully caring and full of love.  She was initially wary of the hospice as though she was admitting defeat by going there but it soon became something she looked forward to - especially her sessions in the pool which greatly eased her pain and kept her supple.

In November 2009 she became very ill and whilst until this point Dad had cared for her at home they now needed extra help and support and she agreed to go into the hospice.  Her condition deteriorated rapidly but we were by her side and the hospice was a source of strength not only to mum but also us.  Nothing was too much trouble, all the staff were incredible.  Mum particularly enjoyed the food which was delicious (I can vouch for that having shared welsh rarebit with her one lunchtime!)  Five days after going into the hospice she died, very peacefully.

In 2010 I walked my first walk for the hospice with a team of 6 - Team Ingrid - and I was overwhelmed by the amount we raised - £3000!

In 2011 a smaller Team Ingrid walked again but no less effective and I managed to raise over £500!

In 2012 Ellie joined Team Ingrid and between us we raised over £500 again which was amazing!

So this year 2013 we need to raise as much as we can again - it costs £7200 a DAY to run the hospice.

Thanks for reading my story and for your support.