At just seventeen-years-old Charlotte, from Midsomer Norton Sixth Form, was diagnosed with two very rare types of cervical sarcomas, and her first operation to remove cancerous cells was only a few days before her first AS Level exam. After two operations, Charlotte is still under medical surveillance, as the doctors are unsure whether the cancer will return.

In September 2017, The Teenage Cancer Trust reached out to Charlotte and offered her much-needed support, including the opportunity to meet other young people who had shared similar experiences. Charlotte said: “I often felt like I was the only one going through those times, but the charity created a community where I could talk to other young people who really understood.”

The Teenage Cancer Trust has built 28 hospitals across the UK, providing a home away from home for young people while they receive treatment, as well as funding specialist nurses and youth support co-ordinators to support the young people in these units. With seven young people being diagnosed with cancer every day in the UK, the Teenage Cancer Trust’s support is in high demand.

“From mental health therapy to a day out visiting museums, the charity will do whatever they can to help young people with cancer,” said Charlotte. “I really want to raise money and awareness for the Teenage Cancer Trust, so it can help even more young people who are suffering. Our aim is to raise £1,000, but I want to exceed this.”

Charlotte’s determination has inspired fellow Year 13 students, Tom and Josh, to help raise funds for the charity. “As well as helping sell Teenage Cancer Trust wrist bands and badges at school, Tom and Josh are going to run the Bath Half Marathon on Sunday, 4th March in their Teenage Cancer Trust t-shirts.

Josh, Head of Sport for the MSN Sixth Form Student Council, will be taking part in the Bath Half Marathon as an elite runner. He said: “Seeing how hard Charlotte has fought this year, I am so happy to run the half marathon to raise money for The Teenage Cancer Trust, so that they can continue to help others through life-changing situations.”

Collectively, the three Midsomer Norton Sixth Form students have raised £700 towards their £1,000 target. Tom said: “Charlotte is one of our closest friends and, following her cancer diagnosis, the Teenage Cancer Trust provided her with excellent support. As a result, we would love to raise both money and awareness for this amazing charity, which has not only helped Charlotte, but so many others like her.”

If you would like to help Charlotte, Tom and Josh reach their £1,000 target, you can donate to Tom and Josh’s Just Giving page at: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/tom-doble1