Ever since I was a little girl, marathon Sunday meant standing out by the road, clapping and cheering for the runners and handing out jelly babies whilst looking out for the fun runners! ‘One day, I’m going to do that’ was my regular mantra.

As each year went by, I’d take up my usual position and the annual tradition continued. After Bermondsey station was built the crowds had significantly increased and so Joe and I, along with his mum would get up there earlier as we’d stand there looking out for friends, family and celebs running. Sending Joe back to make cups of tea and bring them out. Mandy and I, use to wait for the last runners giving them moral support and saying to each other, if they can do that then we can.

Mandy was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2019 and only a few months later she passed away. So as unfit and unmarathon ready as I am, after years of applying and being rejected I have a place in the London marathon, my childhood dream. But this time it’s for you Mandy, you’d better be watching! 🥰

It’s unacceptable that more than half of people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer die within 3 months. Survival rates have improved enormously for most cancers, yet for pancreatic cancer, this is not the case.

Pancreatic Cancer UK is dedicated to taking on this injustice using every possible means. They're supporting people with pancreatic cancer now, campaigning, and funding vital research to transform the future. Help them to make the breakthroughs that people with pancreatic cancer so desperately need.