Marlene has weigh to go to raise funds Losing weight for charity in memory of her father
A Stonehouse woman is hoping to raise pounds for Prostate Cancer UK – by shifting them.
Marlene Graham is taking part in a sponsored slim to raise funds and awareness for the charity after it became close to her heart.
The 34-year-old was inspired to support Prostrate Cancer UK after she sadly lost her father, John, to the disease in 2005.
Marlene, who now also works as a fundraising co-ordinator for the charity, has already smashed her target of £100, and is hoping to raise even more.
She said: “In 2005, my dad, who owned Cowan Joinery Construction in Larkhall, passed away, just 10 weeks after he was diagnosed with prostate cancer.
“At the time, the charity was known as The Prostate Cancer Charity and they provided me with literature and much needed support at a very difficult time.
“I was thrilled to be given the opportunity to work for Prostate Cancer UK and I’m really excited about having the chance to help make a difference to the lives of men living with prostate cancer and their families.”
After having a history of yoyo dieting and trying all sorts of methods to lose weight, Marlene is now motivating herself to get in shape by raising money for the cause.
She is currently 18st 4½lbs, and hoping to lose at least two stones between now and January.
She continued: “I’m well aware of what a healthy diet is and what I need to be doing.
“I actually started this challenge July 9 and had lost almost one stone but recently gained 8lbs on holiday. As a result I have joined a local Weight Watchers class for additional support.
“By making my challenge public knowledge, I’m sure it’s the extra boost I need to stop making excuses and start taking responsibility.”
James Beeby, director of Fundraising at Prostate Cancer UK, said: “It’s fantastic to see that Marlene has decided to take part in this sponsored slim to raise funds for Prostate Cancer UK. Prostate Cancer is something that cannot be ignored and by doing this, Marlene is joining Men United and helping to make a difference. Men United is a movement for everyone who believes men are worth fighting for, and by taking on this challenge, Marlene is pledging her support to join the fight in beating prostate cancer.
“Currently one man an hour dies from prostate cancer in the UK. That’s 10,900 men a year. Based on current trends, if we ignore prostate cancer and do nothing, this number will rise to over 14,500 men a year by 2026. And by 2030 it’s predicted to be the most common cancer overall.
“Whatever you do together, big or small, you’ll be helping us push for real change, from more effective testing to better treatments.”
Anyone who would like to sponsor Marlene can call 0141 218 4760 or visit http:// uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ Marlenewgraham
Marlene is also running a fundraising raffle through https://www.justgiving. com/fundraising/ Raffleforprostatecanceruk.
For anyone who remembers Marlene’s dad, John, a tribute page has been set up for memories of him to be shared at http://john-graham. muchloved.com/