“Cancer stole my beautiful, wonderful mother — and just nine months earlier, it cruelly took my special stepdad too.”
I’ve worked with cancer patients of all ages throughout my career — offering support, fitting wigs, holding hands, giving cwtches, and sharing love for over ten years. This battle has always been close to my heart .
I’ve shaved the heads of women facing the unknown — taking control of the one thing they can as this cruel disease tries to take everything else. I once shaved the Rapunzel-length hair of a seven-year-old girl while her mother silently sobbed behind her. The little girl asked, “Do I still look like a princess?”
I’ve seen how cancer steals — slowly, relentlessly. And then, I had to face it myself. I had to watch it take both of my parents.
The Hospice of the Valleys is a charity I’ve supported for many years — even back when I was a reporter, covering their fundraising efforts and meeting the extraordinary nurses who bring light into the darkest days .
So now, in memory of Mam and Derrick, I’ve decided to do a skydive — and feel a little closer to them both up there .
I want to raise money for this amazing charity that works miracles every day. The flowers and gifts I’ve received have been deeply appreciated, but if you were thinking of giving, perhaps you could consider donating instead to a cause that helps so many face this devastating illness — one that feels all too common now.
If you can spare a few pounds, I would be so grateful. I’ll jump from a plane, fly closer to Mam and Derrick, and raise money in their honour for a charity that means the world to me.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.
