Michael’s Story

Michael was just 39 years old (only 8 months away from turning 40) when our world changed forever.

He was a loving dad, brother, son, partner and friend, whose whole life revolved around his son aged 6 and daughter aged 10.

Michael loved the simple things that make life special. He was happiest outdoors fishing, camping with family, and taking his children on family holidays where they could laugh, play, and make memories together. He was fun, loyal and a protector, he always put others before himself. His children were his world.

On May 30th, he went to the walk-in centre with pain in his chest and back, thinking he had simply pulled a muscle. After being sent to hospital for a scan, he was told the devastating news that he had cancer.

Sadly, after weeks of delays and confusion between appointments, as a family we all stuck together with strength and hope. No treatment was started until day 41 then 3 days later, we were told there was nothing more they could do. 

Up until that point, we were given hope that he could be helped, that they couldn’t cure him but they could treat him.

But that hope was suddenly taken away, and as a family we were left heartbroken and helpless, watching him deteriorate day by day.

From day 1 we were left to watch his condition worsen each and every day. He went from being active and full of life to struggling to move, eventually losing feeling in his legs, unable to walk or hardly move.

The hardest part was seeing how much he had to suffer, holding his hand, trying to be strong, and realising that by the time the doctors told us it was the end, he was too unwell to even say goodbye to his son.

The pain he endured was devastating.

Through every bit of it, Michael never complained about himself. Not once. His only worry was his children, their happiness, their future, their world after he has gone. He faced his illness with unbelievable bravery, strength, dignity and love that we’ll never forget.

Michael was taken from us far too soon, but his kindness, courage, and love will stay with us forever.

As a family, we are still struggling to come to terms with his sudden loss. We gave him a beautiful send-off, but the pain of losing him and the unanswered questions around his care and diagnosis remain incredibly hard, because we were never given a clear answer to what cancer he actually had. 

My Challenge 48 for 7

Before Michael passed away, his family & I made a promise to Michael: that we would always do everything we could to look after his children and support their future.

To honour the promise I made to my brother in-law to help support his children, I take on the challenge inspired by Michael’s story by running 48km (29.9 miles) every day for 7 consecutive days a total of 336km (209 miles). Starting 16th November. This represents the 48 days from Michael’s diagnosis to his passing. A reminder of how quickly life can change, and why every act of kindness and love matters.

Every single step I take is for Michael and his children, to help give them the love, support, and opportunities their dad wanted for them more than anything.

We miss Michael more than words can ever say, but through this challenge, we’re carrying his spirit forward step by step, with love, pride, and hope.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this. Your support is greatly appreciated. It would mean the world to our family if you can, please donate, share, or simply send a message of encouragement.

Every bit of kindness helps keep Michael’s memory shining bright for his children.