I’m taking part in Friends of Anchor’s Brave to raise vital funds for those facing a cancer or haematology diagnosis. Every penny of your donation will go towards the charity’s mission to support these patients, all living in the north & north east of Scotland. The charity has funded millions; investing in medical equipment, research and person-centred wellbeing which I have personally benefited from.

In March 2022 I was diagnosed with Chronic Myelo Monocytic Leukaemia (CMML). CMML is a rare type of leukaemia that doesn’t respond so well to some of the more common treatments. I kept well for the first 18 months, then the leukaemia started to progress. I was commenced on a trial chemotherapy drug, but after only two cycles this was stopped due to adverse reactions. My blood levels became dangerously low and I had repeated hospital admissions with infections. When not an inpatient I was attending the Anchor Unit three, sometimes four times a week for blood and platelet transfusions. The chemo did suppress the condition for a brief time, then it gradually escalated again a few months back. With chemo no longer being an option, as a Christian I believe in a God who can heal, and I’m trusting in His power to heal me.

My biggest issue is fatigue, leaving me unable to walk very far. However, God willing it is my aim to walk 10 mins a day from now until the end of April in aid of Friends of Anchor. I’m looking forward to Brave, albeit with some apprehension! I really think it will give me back some confidence and motivation in my life, while also being good to meet up with others who have experienced similar journeys.

Thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page and read a little of my story.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.