A WOMAN is taking on the London Marathon to raise money for a Wirral charity that was “there for her when she needed it most”.

On Sunday, April 21, Paula Seamarks from Flintshire will be hitting the streets of London for Maggie’s Cancer Charity following the support she received during her mum’s cancer diagnosis.

Paula’s mum was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in October 2022 and while undergoing chemotherapy treatment, Maggie’s offered support to Paula.

Wirral Globe: Paula and her mumPaula and her mum (Image: Maggie's)

Paual said: “Cancer has affected many people close to my heart, my dad was diagnosed with kidney cancer during 2004 and left us within five months of diagnosis. Along with other special friends and family members, all taken far too young.

“In October 2022, it was confirmed that my Mum had pancreatic cancer. She's still currently being monitored and it's unclear of recurrence, so she’s still fighting hard.

“Maggie’s has been a huge support, whilst Mum was having her chemotherapy treatment. I’d go over to the centre, have a quiet moment or chat with the team of professional, and I always received a warm welcome.

“The emotional support provided by the heartfelt Maggie's staff and volunteers is of such a great value for all those affected.”

Maggie’s provide information, psychological support, financial guidance, nutrition advice and run support groups, exercise sessions, workshops and various activities that compliments the work of professionals in hospitals and helps with the impact of cancer, along with side effects from cancer treatments.

Now Paula will be taking on the marathon challenge in a bid to raise funds for the charity and raise awareness around the work that they do.

Paula added: “I'm up for the challenge of the London Marathon.

“I'm not doing it for a time but for completion and to raise the profile of Maggie's.  As well as to help to raise funds for the much-needed support that they provide.

“I am also hoping to raise awareness of the new Maggie’s centre that will be developed in North Wales over the coming year.

“I have been running shorter runs until recently, but I've been steadily upping my mileage.  It's a challenge but I’m looking forward to the experience.”

Kathy Wright, Centre Head at Maggie’s said: “We are extremely grateful to Paula for taking on this incredible challenge, and we wish her lots of luck.

“It’s great to hear that Paula found the support from Maggie’s helpful.

“It’s important that people know we’re here for anyone affected by cancer, and because bewildering changes not only affect the person with cancer, but also their family and friends, we offer our services to them as well. If you or anyone you know is struggling, please do just drop in.”