QE Hospital Birmingham and the Imran Khan Cancer Appeal

In the quiet moments of reflection, I often find myself grappling with the past year—a year that has reshaped my life and the lives of my loved ones. My name is Kaneez Choudhry, and I am a mother of two beautiful sons, a proud mother in law and a devoted wife. This past year, I faced the daunting challenge of battling cancer, a journey that brought unimaginable hardships but also revealed the profound strength of love and community.

When I first received the diagnosis, it felt as if the ground had been pulled from beneath my feet it was to say. The word "cancer" carried with it a weight I had never anticipated. My heart sank, and fear enveloped me. How would I tell my sons? How could I shield them from the pain of uncertainty while both at university full time? In those early days, my husband Naseem stood by my side, a pillar of strength, assuring me that we would face this together. It was his unwavering support that kept alive a flicker of hope within me.

As the weeks progressed, the realities of treatment set in. The chemotherapy sessions drained my energy and spirit, yet I found solace in the love that surrounded me. My community rallied around us, offering meals, support, and encouragement during the most challenging moments. Friends organised fundraisers, and neighbours reached out to check in on my family, reminding me that I was not alone in this battle.

Throughout this ordeal, I became acutely aware of the vital work done by oncology professionals. Their expertise, compassion, and dedication have been a lifeline for me and countless others. This realisation has fueled my desire to give back and raise awareness about the importance of cancer research and treatment. I feel a deep sense of responsibility to advocate for the advancements in oncology that have made my treatment possible.

With this in mind, I have decided to channel my experiences into action. I am proud to announce a charity dinner scheduled for November 24, 2024, to raise funds for the QE Hospital Birmingham and the Imran Khan Cancer Appeal. These organisations play a critical role in providing care and support for those affected by cancer like myself, and I want to ensure that others have access to the same resources that have been instrumental in my journey.

This dinner is not just an event; it is a celebration of resilience, community, and hope. It is an opportunity for us to come together, share our stories, and support one another in the fight against cancer. I invite everyone to join us in this endeavor, to stand in solidarity with those battling this disease, and to contribute to a cause that has touched my life so profoundly.

As I reflect on the past year, I am filled with gratitude for the love of my family and the support of my community. Together, we have weathered the storm, and I stand here today, stronger and more determined than ever. I believe in the power of unity and compassion, and I am committed to making a difference in the lives of others who are facing the same challenges.