*Please be aware Marie’s story is written in 2 parts, before and after the dream date*
My mum Marie Doel, currently 49 years young, is an amazing mother to 4 children and an inspirational grandmother to 7 beautiful grandchildren. She adores us all and lives to care for us, she thrives on spending time with her children and grandchildren and has always done everything possible to make sure we had all the things we needed. She continues to do this even though we’re all grown up and I can’t imagine living life without my mum, she’s my best friend. If any of us ever need her she always there for us, even at the times when she’s been battling with her cancer and treatments.
Since the age of 43 my mum has battled with cancer, firstly diagnosed with breast cancer and having a double mastectomy plus radiotherapy and chemotherapy, she was then diagnosed with ovarian cancer having a hysterectomy and more and more and more chemo. She’s been through a lot and has been battling for her life for many years, now doctors have told us just 2 months ago that even with treatment she would hopefully live for another 12 months, however doctors don’t recommend treatment as her quality of life would be considerably worse and the treatment would have little effect, then outcome would still be the same.
Since the age of 43 my mum has battled with cancer, firstly diagnosed with breast cancer and having a double mastectomy plus radiotherapy and chemotherapy, she was then diagnosed with ovarian cancer having a hysterectomy and more and more and more chemo. She’s been through a lot and has been battling for her life for many years, now doctors have told us just 2 months ago that even with treatment she would hopefully live for another 12 months, however doctors don’t recommend treatment as her quality of life would be considerably worse and the treatment would have little effect, then outcome would still be the same.
I wouldn’t be the women I am today without her love and care. I love her with all my heart and it crushes me too think I could lose her at any time.
I am trying to stay strong for everyone but it’s very hard, I know my mums not the only person too struggle with this terrible illness and there are lots of other women, men and children battling with cancer just like my mum is and in my eyes they all deserve a wish or a dream too come true.
Now thanks to The Eve Merton Dreams Trust, me, my mum and our whole family can now enjoy some quality time all together, reminiscing and making memories that will last a life time.
Sadly Marie passed away the week before she was set to enjoy the family break in Devon. Marie’s family decided to fulfil her final wish and use the time to come together, to reminisce, tell stories and be there for each other.
Marie’s daughter Bridget sent us the below:
I just wanted to say a huge thank you for arranging the family holiday for us to Redland house Devon. It was the most amazing place and the house was perfect for all my family, we spent our time reminiscing about my late mum, she would of loved it there and it’s so sad she couldn’t be there with us like it was meant to be, but I know she would of wanted us to go in her memory. I can’t thank you enough for making this break possible and giving my mum something to look forward too. I know she didn’t make the holiday like we expected & hoped, but she was there in sprit with us, just like she will always be. Plus her final weeks were filled with happy anticipation for the Dream ahead and that made her smile.
I just wanted to tell you how wonderful the work you’re doing for cancer patients & people with terminal illnesses in Doncaster. It’s amazing and giving people hope and a chance to smile when they don’t think they can. It makes a huge difference to a cancer patient’s life and I think the charity is brilliant.
I would personally like to thank Claire Graham a charity coordinator, not only did she arrange the holiday for us, she has continued showing me support since my mum passed away and I feel I have gained a friend.
Thank you all so much, Bridget Holvey
We’d like to add that although we were only lucky enough to meet Marie the once, it was an incredible pleasure to meet such a kind and friendly lady who we have no doubt will be sorely missed.
Sweet Dreams Marie x
