My beautiful son Jake was diagnosed with Stage 3 Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of childhood cancer in August 2023. Jake was incredibly brave throughout his battle with cancer, and I am so proud of his strength and resilience. In March 2024, after being told that his cancer had spread into his Cerebrospinal Fluid, Jake had several seizures in hospital and following a stay in intensive care he bravely decided that he no longer wanted to be treated.

Jake died peacefully at home on the 26th April 2024. He was 13 years old. His passing has taught me to live life, and to live each moment now, and so I have decided to do something I have always wanted to do, but something that absolutely terrifies me!

On the 8th September I will be jumping out of a plane at 10,000ft. I can't even stand on a chair, or climb a ladder, but Jake's courage has shown me I can do anything I put my mind to.

I will be raising money for Abby's Heroes, who have been the most incredible support to me and my family during Jake's treatment. From providing us with a picnic on the first day we arrived at Piam Brown Ward at Southampton General Hospital, in our upset and confused state, to offering financial support while we spent 8 weeks in London for Jake's Proton Beam Therapy . They also offer practical support, memory making grants, welfare packs and a counselling service for the whole family. Kirsten, the Family Support Worker for Abby's Heroes, seemed to have a knack of appearing just when I needed her. They are an amazing team and we are so grateful for their continuing support. Every single penny raised is vital to provide these services.

Please donate if you can do that other families going through this can be as well supported as we have been.