A FATHER recently completed the arduous 36-mile Ultra Challenge Jurassic Coast walk, raising funds for the charity that supported his daughter with cancer.
Stuart Fay, from West Grimstead, walked along the Jurassic Coast - from Corfe Castle to Weymouth - in a bid to raise vital funds for Young Lives vs Cancer.
The 52-year-old was inspired to take on the challenge following his daughter’s courageousness and positivity during treatment.
Gemma, 23, was diagnosed with a rare form of soft tissue cancer in her hip in September 2020.
Since the diagnosis, she has undergone a hip replacement, five weeks of radiotherapy, and six rounds of intensive chemotherapy.
The disease spread to Gemma’s lungs, and she is now being treated with a gentler type of chemotherapy.
Stuart said: “Her treatment took place in three hospitals in Oxford, which is two hours drive away from home for every appointment, treatment or visiting.
“The work the team do is amazing, and we will always be grateful.”
Stuart completed the 36-miles in just under 14 hours, raising £2, 677 for the charity.
The amount raised surpassed his £1500 target.
Young Lives vs Cancer supported the whole family, and the social worker helped them to access grants to combat the financial implications. It also provided emotional support.
Stuart added: “Marc, the Young Lives vs Cancer social worker, has been extremely supportive.
“He has provided crucial support, advice and guidance on important aspects including work and finances. He organised for us to stay in CLIC Court, one of the charity’s ‘Home from Home’, close by to the hospitals in Oxford.
“Having access to the house was the biggest blessing and meant being so close by, as and when required, I could pop in and take in supplies.
“I also had a place to return to and relax, try, and switch off instead of having to drive home, whilst waiting to get the nod that I could see Gemma.”
Young Lives vs Cancer provides day-to-day support for families following a cancer diagnosis, at a time when the situation can be overwhelming. They do not receive any government funding.
More information about the fundraising challenge can be found on the Just Giving Page.
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