Cancer touches so many families, and unfortunately mine is no exception.

My name is Penny, and I am reaching out to share our story in the hope that you will join us in raising funds to make a real difference.

For the past 12 years my family has been deeply affected by breast cancer and throughout this time The Peterborough Cancer Treatment Appeal (PCTA) Charity has been a lifeline. This charity means the world to us, and I’m asking for your help to give back to a place that has been there for us during some of our darkest moments.

It all began in 2013 when my mum was first diagnosed with breast cancer. The impact on our family was devastating but after surgery and a tough round of radiotherapy, thankfully she was in remission.

Unfortunately in 2015 she was diagnosed with a second different type of breast cancer. Determined to fight and make this cancer her bitch she underwent another round of surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy! Despite a severe reaction to the chemo, she fought through it and was once again cancer-free.

For the next eight years we enjoyed happy and cancer-free moments, but in October 2023 we received the heartbreaking news that mum had a third diagnosis. She underwent a major surgery to remove the tumor (as chemotherapy was no longer an option).

September 2024 came along and the cancer returned yet again, just a year later. If you know my mum, you know she doesn’t give up easily. The battle continues and she will soon begin 15 sessions of radiotherapy.

To express our gratitude for the ongoing support from PCTA, my partner Jack and I are taking on a challenge to raise £2,000. We’ve signed up to complete a Hyrox in Warsaw on April 12th 2025 to help fund equipment for cancer diagnosis and treatment at Peterborough and Stamford Hospitals. Every donation will go directly toward supporting this cause and improving the care for others battling cancer in our community.

I’d like to take a moment to thank the amazing team at the Fitzwilliam Hospital especially Mr. Goh, mum’s breast care nurse Adele and the entire team for their unwavering support and dedication over the years. Their care has been a huge source of strength and belief for our family.

A special shout out goes to Empire Gym in Market Deeping where I’ve found both physical and emotional strength this past year. It’s truly become my second home and I couldn’t be more grateful for their support. Jack is definitely being dragged into this but I couldn’t do it without him, despite his questionable cardiovascular ability...

We’re asking for your help. Every donation, no matter the amount. Your support could have a lasting impact on families like mine ensuring they get the care and treatment they need and deserve during their hardest times.

Please donate, share this campaign and spread the word (after donating generously). Your kindness means more than we can express. Mum has fought cancer three times with incredible strength, resilience, and determination and I have no doubt she will overcome this latest challenge.

Together we can make a difference in the fight against cancer. Thank you for being part of this journey with us.

With love and gratitude,

Penny & Jack