In 2006, when I was 12 years old, my mum was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer. If I’m completely honest, I had blocked out that part of my childhood, until recently.

 

There were plenty of lows but also a few highs during this time. As I’m sure most families who have had the unfortunate displeasure of having to deal with this disease, you seek refuge and light hearted relief whenever you can.

 

When I think back to the time my mum was ill, there are 3 particular memories that stand out. As much as the memories of her being tired, unwell and scared are prominent in my mind, there are also some positive moments too. 

 

The first is when my mum, sick of having her hair falling out due to the chemotherapy, shaved her head and proudly came in to show me her new look. Rather than being distressed and upset, we laughed and joked. I was only young, but I felt like that moment gave us an overwhelming feeling of togetherness when we needed it most.

 

The second memory was accompanying my mum to a radiotherapy session in London. Again, this would usually be a bleak and emotional experience but when I reflect on it I remember being enamoured with the lights, sights and smells of London. My mum took me out for lunch after & once again we shared an experience which brought us even closer together. 

 

The third memory I have is when my mum, with her immune system depleted from chemo, got pneumonia and then became neutropenic in hospital . She was in hospital for 10 days & I stayed with my then-childminders/guardian angels, now-friends/guardian angels, Sandy & Phil. Having to put on a mask and gown just to see my own mum was a scary reminder of the reality of the situation and how vulnerable life is, but I will always remember the love and support that I received. 

 

As anyone who has ever met my mum will attest, she is not only the loveliest woman you’re likely to meet, she’s also one of the toughest. She’s resilient, brave and determined and I hope by running this marathon, I can demonstrate some of those attributes and make her proud.

 

My mum is now 16 years in remission, she is happy and healthy and that is only possible because of the support networks that we had. So whilst I can’t ever repay the people who have kept my mum safe, by running for Breast Cancer Now I hope I can make a small difference and positive contribution to the lives of other people. 

 

Any support is greatly appreciated.