Support for Lindsay & Ollie in memory of Karen

Karen Harris was an amazing Mum to Lindsay (13) & Ollie (5), and best friend and wife to Mark.

On the 6 April, Karen passed away having fought cancer on and off for 12 years.

Lindsay was just 16 months old when Karen was first diagnosed with breast cancer. And Karen was 23 weeks pregnant with Ollie when she learnt the cancer had returned.

Karen was fierce and determined, she fought with everything she had to stay with her family for as long as possible. She threw everything at her illness - mulitple surgeries, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, alternate therapies, meditation, and organic living. Karen was one of the first people in the world to have a 3D printed titanium sternum, and despite being "scared shitless", she gratefully embraced this cutting-edge technology as it delivered her more time with her kids.

Through it all, Karen focused on the positives.

She sought out laughter, love, spending time in nature, enjoying good food and making memories that will last a lifetime. She used to say, "cancer doesn't make us laugh any less, but we cry more."

You can read more of Karen's story in her own words here:

https://thedeliverymag.com/with-child-cancer-fighting-for-my-babies/?fbclid=IwAR2bai4Cdzk7pOjM-P1CanUff5ZlKa8IyP6JJ-2pG8T94YWYuhVhPG-g_7w

Karen was someone who didn't like talking about her cancer much. The article above was the only time she really shared her story publicly. She never wanted us to make a fuss, or hold a fundraiser to help cover mounting medical bills, she never wanted to be the 'face of cancer'. Rather, she wanted to know how you were, and what was going on in your life. She was a generous and loving friend to so many, right up to the very end.

And so to honour Karen's memory, the friends that Karen loved and laughed with, are now raising money to support her family.

Karen's final wish was to see her family financially secure so Mark doesn't have to rush back to work and can spend a few months at home supporting the kids.

Funds will go towards covering school fees and household bills over the next few months. We'd also love to be able to raise some money for the things that give the kids joy - their sport, their dance, a family holiday together etc.

Many people have reached out asking how they can help this beautiful family. We understand that not everyone is in a position to assist financially, and there are other ways you can demonstrate your love and concern for Mark, Lindsay and Ollie. But if you are in a position to offer financial support, any donation big or small is most appreciated.

In the meantime, Karen would want us to live life to the fullest - to be happy, eat well, don't sweat the small stuff, laugh a lot and dance in your kitchen.