In 2021 my Wife was diagnosed with a Myeloproliferative Neoplasm. No, I didn’t know what one of those was either – they are a group of blood cancers that are really rare.  

Being diagnosed with anything that involves the word “cancer” is scary, especially when it comes with the word “incurable” attached. She is even more of a statistical anomaly as it’s unusual for people to get it when they’re young (alright, middle aged).

There’s a lot of misinformation about MPNs – and even experienced doctors can have trouble diagnosing them correctly. At first, every time we went for an appointment the prognosis kept changing from good to bad to worse. At one point we were told Stef would have to be on chemotherapy for life. She has to deal with the horrible daily symptoms of the disease and side affects of treatment and I'm hugely proud of her every day.

I have set myself a very challenging goal to run a half marathon in just 3 weeks time all in aid of MPV Voice, a charity very close to my heart.

MPN Voice were incredibly helpful to us from the very beginning, offering reassurance, support and informed evidence based information. Through the charity Stef has discovered a network of fellow MPN patients which has enabled her to share her concerns, talk about the side effects of treatment and feel supported. Through hearing other people’s stories it’s formed solidarity which really helped get our heads around the diagnosis.

Only two in every 100,000 people will be diagnosed with an MPN each year in the UK. With a bit of luck my wife’s blood cancer will stay in its relatively dormant state for some time. And if it ever decides to progress. I know MPN Voice will be there to support us along the way.

3 WEEKS TO GO GUYS, LETS SEE WHAT WE CAN ACHIEVE TOGETHER

Much Love and thanks for donating xx