Following the fantastic fundraising party at the celebration for Amanda on Sunday 15th November 2015, in Stoke, when over £5,000 was donated, Amanda and husband Dean are keen to continue to help raise awareness and encourage further donations.
Amanda’s story has deeply touched many people. In December 2013 Amanda was diagnosed with grade 3, stage 2b Triple Negative Breast Cancer at the age of just 40. She underwent a lumpectomy, followed by six cycles of chemotherapy and 23 cycles of radiotherapy which were completed in June 2014. Her recovery was painful, long and tentative. Then following a series of cognitive problems, a CT scan taken in the early hours of 12th May 2015 revealed a high grade tumour in her brain.
Now, having undergone two sessions of cranial surgery, seemingly endless drugs, and another painful, long and tentative wait, on the 21st of October 2015 Amanda and her beloved Dean were told that there were no further options for treatment, and the cancer was terminal.
Naturally, this news was devastating. However, to help bring light in a time of so much darkness, Amanda has chosen three charities very close to her heart that she wants to support, to help others when they face their own dark days:
The Migraine Trust. Amanda has suffered from chronic migraines for over 20 years and this is a very much under supported cause. According to the Department of Health in 2005 eight million people get migraines making it the most prevalent long term neurological condition.
Meningitis Now. Amanda's beloved sister, Steph, died of meningitis aged only 15. This potentially fatal, and dangerously fast acting condition, is an inflammation of the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord, and can be caused by different organisms, including bacteria and viruses.
Douglas Macmillan Hospice. This local hospice, where Amanda plans to go, provides their charitable services free of charge to adults with life limiting illnesses in the North Staffordshire area and also provides much needed supportive care for their families and carers. 75% of its income comes from voluntary donations.
Over the coming months there will be more fundraising events and sponsorship opportunities, to ensure Amanda’s legacy continues to help her chosen charities, and those who benefit from their ongoing research and support.
Please consider supporting these events, organising your own, and donating wherever you can. Just £15 can make a difference. Let’s make the celebration of Amanda’s life, friendships and adventures the fundraising event of a lifetime.You can follow Amanda’s story through her blog: http://ukbreastcancertips.blogspot.co.uk
