Devastating loss of mother-in-law inspires keen martial arts newcomer to raise funds
Jake Hinchcliffe, from Nottingham, will be taking part in a white collar mixed martial arts match in memory of his mother-in-law, Lorraine, who died just 11 days after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in December 2015. The match will take place on the 5th March 2017 at The Village Hotel to raise vital funds for the charity Pancreatic Cancer Action.
The loss of his beloved mother-in-law provided the motivation for him to take on this challenge to help improve early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.
“Lorraine’s story is sadly typical of many pancreatic cancer stories” says Jake. “She had a pain in her back and a pain on her side for a year before diagnosis, which went undetected even though she was regularly going to the doctors for blood tests and liver readings. She also suffered from classic symptoms of rapid weight loss and had jaundice but she was still diagnosed too late for surgery, which is currently the only potential cure.”
Jakes girlfriend Sophie, who is Lorraine’s step daughter, added: “I’m really proud of Jake for pursuing something that he’s so passionate about, and not only that he’s doing it to help raise awareness and funds for a charity close to our hearts, but in memory of our Lorraine. He’s training hard and win or lose he will always be a winner in my eyes.”
Pancreatic cancer is the UK’s 5th biggest cancer killer. The survival rate is just 5% which is the lowest of any cancer.
Pancreatic Cancer Action is committed to working towards earlier diagnosis of the disease so that surgery, currently the only cure, is made available to the sufferer. The charity fund research into early diagnosis, provide medical education programmes, and launch awareness campaigns.
Ali Stunt, Founder of Pancreatic Cancer Action, said: “We are delighted that Jake is giving his time to support Pancreatic Cancer Action. Clearly Jake and his family have experienced a devastating loss and this is a fantastic way to be positive and make a difference.”
”We rely solely on donations from the public and thanks to people like Jake we can continue our vital work. Please back Jake in his fundraising efforts so that we can continue research into early diagnosis and raise awareness of pancreatic cancer.”
To sponsor Jake please visit his Just Giving page https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Jake-Hinchliffe
