When I went off work sick in April [to have radio and chemo treatment] a colleague called Gary contacted me, sent his good wishes and told me that his sister was being treated at the Christie at the same time as me. She had a young son, no more than 5 years old.
I found out today that she didn't make it.
Even though I never met her, I feel so sad. Sad that a young mum didn't make it. Sad that her young son will only have vague memories of his mother. Sad for her widower, for Gary and the rest of their family.
That sadness is making even more determined to change my life in future. I'm absolutely set on volunteering at the Christie, giving something back, not only for me now, but also Gary's sister.
And I'm also determined to get the most from my own life - do those things I've always wanted to do, such as go to a F1 Grand Prix, go to concerts for bands/artists I never thought I'd see, visit places I've always wanted to visit.
Sometimes being a stubborn, bloody-minded Taurean has its good points!
Stay strong
Jacqui x
