Nervous Anticipation

"Together it is possible"

The above statement is the theme for this year's World Cancer Day on Saturday February 4th, which is why I've published my latest blog originally due next week, slightly earlier than expected.

As The South Downs Way charity event in aid of Cancer Research UK fast approaches ~ it is now only just over 11 weeks away ~ I find myself in a slightly worrying state of nervous anticipation.
What originally started out as a personal quest to try to raise a few funds, has evolved into quite a major campaign, and all of our combined efforts have significantly raised the bar.

Back in the late summer last year, I was due to fly out to New Zealand and attend my friends' wedding in Christchurch. Unfortunately, due to the devastating earthquake which had previously shaken the city this had to be postponed, and I found myself at a bit of a loose end.

~ Don't worry Ange...I'm coming 'home' later this year instead, I promise! ~

Around this time I also had to contend with the tragic news that my then girlfriend had just been diagnosed with terminal cancer.
Despite my offer to use my holiday to look after her & her young girls whilst she attended chemotherapy treatment, she felt it best if I kept my distance ~ a rejection which ultimately caused us to drift apart forever.
In my frustation that I was helpless, I decided that I needed to keep myself busy and throw myself into a 'project'...and what could be better under the circumstances than organising an event to raise awareness and funds for the very same cause that had effectively taken her away from me.

So here I am, six months later in the midst of fundraising activity, feeling a little bit out of my 'comfort zone', but endeavouring to finish what I started. I have been considerably overwhelmed by the support that the campaign has so far received, and the donations and personal messages that people have sent me have genuinely left me deeply touched.
The support I've also gained by the other lads who have chosen to join me on my quest, has also had a profound effect on me. Especially Curph for 'stumping' up the inital cash for some of the accomodation deposits, and Jon for taking some of the pressure off my shoulders by booking additional places, and by getting his parents involved...cheers lads ~ it's very much appreciated, believe me!

I now realise that Lou was just one individual who touched my life, but there are thousands out there who are similarly effected, and it is to all of these brave souls that I'll continue to strive to achieve my goals.

And finally...
Congratulations to another dear friend, Trace, who after being overdue for over a week has finally given birth to her second beautiful baby girl...much love to you & all your family hun xx

Ramblin' Steve