Running for dad

Lora Christy and partner Richard Blyth made sure Lora’s dad, David Christy, could enjoy every moment of her wedding day by getting married earlier than planned. Former police officer and dad-of-five, David, 72, is being treated for bowel cancer and has been given a terminal prognosis.

David was fit and well, working as a bait supplier, when he collapsed in 2016 just before his 70th birthday. After a CT scan, he was rushed into hospital as doctors found a tumour the size of a fist in his bowel. The tumour had pushed so hard against his intestines, they had burst and ruptured his appendix, and he was in danger of developing septicaemia.

David, who is married to Diana, had surgery to remove the tumour followed by chemotherapy. He made a good recovery, but last summer tests found the cancer had returned. Further chemotherapy has reduced the number of cancerous cells in his liver. He credits his positive attitude and sense of humour, with helping him fight the disease.

Former Fleetwood High pupil Lora, 26, and Richard, 35, got married in April in Pilling, at Bradshaw Lane Nursery. The wedding favours were Cancer Research UK ribbon badges which guests wore in tribute to David’s courage.

Lora now lives in Canterbury, working in the digital marketing and communications team at her local hospice. She will take on the 10k Race for Life this summer to honour her dad’s ongoing battle.

She said: “Even though I had been around cancer a lot as a volunteer at Trinity Hospice when I was a teenager and I work in a hospice, it was still a shock when dad was diagnosed as he had always been so active and well. Although he is terminally ill, we are pleased the palliative chemotherapy is making a difference and are all thrilled we had such a positive and happy wedding day. As a family we know only too well the importance of research.”

To sponsor Lora visit www.fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/loras-10k-race-for-life