At the beginning of September 2013 we received the devastating news that our mum had been diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in her lungs and bones. After watching our mum bravely fight breast cancer six years previous to this diagnosis we were heartbroken to be told it had returned, however this time the diagnosis was terminal.  A diagnosis of secondary breast cancer means that the cancer can be treated but it can’t be cured. The aim is to control and slow down the spread of the disease, to relieve symptoms and to give the best possible quality of life, for as long as possible.

Over the last year we have watched in awe as our amazing mum adapted her life to live with secondary breast cancer with such courage and positivity. Anyone who knows our mum will know that she is always smiling, always thinking of others and forever putting her family (especially my brother and I) first. She was determined to be well enough to attend both our graduation and wedding this year, fighting to stay fit and well enough to be there by our side. Needless to say she was there on both occasions wearing the biggest smile in the room!

Living with secondary breast cancer in the bones and lungs means our mum has a daily battle with pain and fatigue as well as many days filled with visits to the hospital and hospice. The care she has received from Walsall Palliative Care Centre and St Giles Hospice has been marvellous. Mum attends the centre for treatment from the community oncology nurse who has treated mum with such compassion and kindness. As well as this she has received a range of complementary therapy sessions through Walsall Palliative Care that have had a remarkable impact upon her pain management and most importantly her well being.  The team at Walsall Palliative Care and St Giles hospice create such a welcoming, warm and friendly atmosphere and provide excellent service and care for all their patients.

My brother and I wanted to turn the range of negative feelings associated with the word “cancer” into something positive and give something back to the amazing work that goes on at St Giles Hospice that benefits our mum as well as many others battling with terminal illnesses. We will be facing our biggest physical challenge we have ever attempted in taking part in the Shakespeare Marathon on Sunday 26^th April 2015 in Stratford-Upon-Avon to raise money for St Giles Hospice. We really appreciate you taking the time to read our story and would welcome any contributions to sponsor us in undertaking this challenge.  Every £20 we raise will mean that one patient could benefit from a relaxing complimentary therapy session.

Thank you for your support,

Hayley and Luke xxx