Dying mother’s final wish plea

THE family of a terminally ill mother are trying to make her last wish come true.

Angela Wheeler (48), of Salix Road, Hampton Hargate, Peterborough, who is battling ovarian cancer has been told by doctors that she has 18 months left to live.

The former city pub landlady, who has worked at The Swiss Cottage, The Sapphire Club, The Blue Peter, Molins Sports and Social Club, The Roundhead and The Good Barns Yard over a 28-year career, was first diagnosed with cancer in December 2010 and was originally given a good chance of survival.

By August 2011 she had fought it and the cancer had gone into remission. However in February she was given the news that the cancer had returned two-fold and there was nothing doctors could do but use chemotherapy to prolong her life.

She has said that her final wish is to go away on holiday with five of her children, Terryson Matthews, Lirene Matthews (24), Bob Loveridge (13), Sunny Loveridge (10) and Rosie Loveridge (9), to make and capture happy memories before she becomes too ill.

To fulfil her wish, her daughter Lirene is working tirelessly to organise fundraising events to pay for the holiday, the first of which is taking place today.

Angela said: “The first thing you think of is ‘my kids’. It is devastating. I can’t put it into words.

“I’m just trying to get everything sorted and there is so much to do to make sure my children will be alright after I go.

“There are so many things you want to do before you go but can’t do. I want us to have a happy holiday which will be something for the kids to remember. It is my final wish.”

The fundraising events are being organised by Lirene Matthews with the help of Opportunity Events Peterborough.

Lirene said: “It is really tough. I thought what can I do to help?

“I started by looking for treatments abroad but there is nothing for her and unfortunately we have to grin and bear the fact that it is going to happen and we need to make the most of it while she’s still here.

“I sat down with mum and explained I personally can’t save her, the treatments are not right for her, is there anything I could do for her?

“She said she would like to get some time away with the kids that is her last wish. The idea is to make memories, something we can hang on to forever. It is a holiday, just any holiday, some time away from home and the reality of it all.”

A fundraising fun day takes place at the East Community Complex, in Padholme Road, today from 11am to 5pm. Entry is free and there will be stalls, games and a raffle to enjoy.

A pamper evening, with manicures and fish pedicures among the things on offer, will be held at St Mary’s Church, in New Road, from 6pm to 9.30pm on May 11. Entry is £2.50 in advance or £3 on the door. To book tickets call 07784 050069.