My sister Jess was diagnosed with cancer last year when my little niece Margaux was 8 weeks' old. After a c-section in June 2022, Jess had surgery in September to remove a colorectal tumour and is now on a 6-month chemo regime (November 2022-May 2023). Cancer affects so many people at different stages of life, but going through all this while raising a young baby is particularly tough.

Mummy's Star (https://www.mummysstar.org/) is the only charity in the UK and Ireland dedicated to supporting women diagnosed with cancer during pregnancy or within a year of birth. Jess nominated this charity when I wanted to do some fundraising, and they were generous enough to send me free running kit with their logo, to wear during the marathon.

I completed the Manchester marathon! It was a challenge - I had been nursing an ankle strain for the week before the marathon. I decided to go for it (with physio approval!) and my ankle held up till mile 20. The last 6.2 miles were a bit of a limp/jog battle. I was glad to cross the line and hobble home!

I would be very grateful for any donation. Your money will help women affected by cancer during pregnancy to access specialised support. Mummy's Star helps families to meet others in a similar position, offers small grants to relieve some financial burden, gives support to partners and the wider family, promotes awareness and supports research. Thank you!