Sheffield daughter runs in dad's memory
Emma Sheehan's dad died just last month from cancer. She's now preparing to run the Yorkshire Half Marathon in his memory.
A Sheffield woman, whose dad died from cancer just last month, wants to help stop other families in the future going through what hers has.
Emma Sheehan's running the Yorkshire Half Marathon in April to raise money for Weston Park Hospital where her dad was treated.
She said:
“It’s been an incredibly difficult few months. We are all still coming to terms with the loss of my dad and the huge void he has left, particularly for me, my mum and my elder sister, Aimee.
“Back in June 2015 when he was first diagnosed, I knew that I had to do something to raise money in support of this incredible hospital that had looked after us all so well. I signed up for The Plusnet Half Marathon and vowed to raise money for the place which had extended dad’s life so that we were able to spend those precious final months with him.”
The 23-year-old's hoping the cash will go towards funding research into a cure for the disease while helping to tell more people about what the staff there do.
Emma's dad Dave was diagnosed with bowel and peritoneal cancer in June 2015.
He went on to receive Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy treatment.
Emma added:
“I know he’d have been so proud of me on the day when I reach the finish line and the more money I can raise beforehand will allow other families living with a cancer diagnosis to receive the support and care they so desperately need.”
“I not only fully appreciate the research that helps treat so many patients, but the support for my dad by the nurses at Weston Park Hospital was priceless- sometimes no words can offer comfort like the gesture of a cuppa and biscuit!”
Emma will join thousands of people taking part in the first Plusnet Yorkshire Half Marathon-Sheffield, which starts and finishes in the city centre.
Sarah Cross is the fundraising manager for Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity.
She said:
“It’s incredibly brave of Emma to continue her fundraising efforts for us despite losing her Dad only a few weeks ago.
“We would like to wish her the very best on the day and our Team Weston Park cheering squad will undoubtedly be cheering her on, loud and proud, from the sidelines.
“Emma has raised such a fantastic amount already which will help support other cancer patients and their families going through similar challenges now and in the future.”
Emma has now raised over £2,000 on her JustGiving site and has further donations to add to her total after a collection for the cancer charity was organised at Dave’s funeral.