In February I’ll be participating in the ‘Take Part 53’ Spring challenge hosted by our friends at the CCLG.

The aim of the challenge is to run 53 miles in the month, in recognition of those affected by the TP53 defective gene. Sadly both myself and Jacob carry / carried this defective gene, which led to me developing breast cancer in 2017 and Jacob being diagnosed with Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma in 2018.

This event will be the first in a series of 4 seasonal challenges organised by the CCLG throughout 2023. I plan to push myself to complete each one - and hope to raise money for Jacob’s Join and raise awareness about the TP53 gene in the process .

Some of you may not be aware that, back in 2017, I was diagnosed with DCIS, which is the early stages of breast cancer. I underwent a double mastectomy as a result - and shortly after my second operation Jacob received his cancer diagnosis.

The next 18 months were very challenging and emotional for our family, culminating in the tragic passing of our darling boy. As such, this TP53 challenge is extremely close to our hearts - as I will forever have this gene defect and subsequently be at risk of my cancer reoccurring at any time.

There is good news though, as the assisted IVF treatment and testing that we had before Hope was born means that she is free of the TP53 defect.

Any fundraising/support towards my challenge and our Jacob’s join fund, no matter how big or small, will be truly amazing and greatly appreciated. Thank you for reading.