My friends and I are taking part in VHI Women's Mini Marathon 2023 for Childhood Cancer Ireland.

Five years 'all clear' is a biggy for me. 

When my friends ran the Mini five years ago, to show their support from Ireland to Melbourne, the boost I got in hospital was immense. 

That week I was given the 'all clear' from Hodgkin's lymphoma, but was swiftly re-admitted to hospital and diagnosed with Bleomycin lung toxicity, from the ABVD chemotherapy. The outlook was not favourable. We were told my life expectancy was potentially 3-5years, if the steroids did not work. 

It was a time when I couldn't catch my breath, let alone talk or walk without coughing. It completely took the wind from our sails and swiped the glory away from hitting that 'cancer-free' milestone. 

Six months later, we overcame that shadow of Bleomycin, and I suppose celebrations were definitely not a priority, follow up PET scans, babies and Covid took over! 

In place of a 5-year party this year, I decided to close the circle, and attempt the mini marathon, alongside friends. 

If you might've raised a glass to celebrate with me, please instead, donate what you can to Childhood Cancer Ireland.

It is a cause so close to my heart. Lymphoma and Leukemia are in the blood cancer family. Unfortunately, blood cancer affects mainly young children and young adults - and is the most common type of childhood cancer. 

To know personally the effects of this treatment, the late survivorship effects and having experienced the stolen moments of family life, any help that can go to these families, will not be easily forgotten. 

Much love and thanks from us.

With a 5year heart scan next week, to ensure the chemo hasn’t affected my heart, on June 4th we will hopefully close this chapter and celebrate more good news ! If you feel like joining us on the day, to celebrate it all , please let me know! The more the merrier!

Disclaimer* It won't be a competitive run from me, unfortunately disc issues are showing up my age this year, ha! That won't stop us having a fun jog/walk! 

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I hope you can help me by donating whatever you can. Simply click the Donate button above. All donations are processed securely. All funds raised here will go directly to this great cause.

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Many Thanks for your support.