Can you help me make a real difference to the life of someone affected by Ovarian Cancer?

My dear cousin sister, Sumarha was taken from us too soon last year, at the age of 38, due to this disease. It has taken me months to write this as the grief and shock of losing my sister are still very prevalent. Her admirable positive mindset, mental strength and faith kept her with us as long as was possible. Before she left, we joked and I agreed to run another London Marathon to fundraise again (last year I ran for Cancer Research) but this time for the charity that had given her so much support and advice. She also promised to meet me at the finish line on 21st April 2024, I only wish I could hold her to that...I do know, however, she will be with me every step of the way, just like last year. Those 26 miles will also be in memory of my other dear family members who also experienced this sad disease and their children, siblings, partners and parents. They will all be in my prayers throughout every single mile.

I’m raising funds for Ovacome, the national UK charity focused on providing support and information to anyone affected by this disease. Ovacome is a strong community for those who have been diagnosed, those who think that they might be at risk, friends and family, and even healthcare professionals.

Ovacome exists to reduce isolation, provide expert information, promote understanding of ovarian cancer and its symptoms, and to support those affected by it in their time of need.

Ovacome’s specialist support team is there to help those living with ovarian cancer navigate their treatment, care and life beyond the disease through the charity’s telephone support line, email, and 24-hour forum. Ovacome also hosts online and in-person groups, workshops, and events where people affected can meet others in similar circumstances, share advice, make friends, and offer encouragement to one another in a safe environment and grief support.

Ovacome receives no government funding and so relies on its donors and fundraisers to make its life-changing work possible. Your generosity could help someone affected by ovarian cancer access the vital support and resources they need. Any amount you feel able to give could have a huge impact on the experience of someone facing a diagnosis.

It would mean a lot to me if you could share my fundraising page with your friends, family, colleagues and on your social media. I really want to ensure counselling and support is available to all who have to come to terms with a diagnosis and to help keep them hopeful and positive, like Sumarha was.

Thank you so much for helping me to ensure that Ovacome can continue to be there to support those affected by ovarian cancer when they need it most. Together we can make a real difference! Farah Malik