Nick: The hope is for a future where Ovarian Cancer will be a survivable disease.
15 April 2024
Nick, with his rescued English Setter Louis, are taking on the challenge of walking the English coastline to raise the money to sponsor an ovarian cancer researcher – all in memory of his wife, Lisa.
This epic walk will take Nick and Louis just over 7 months, along 3048 miles of coastline.
Here Nick tells us about Lisa’s diagnosis, the adventure which lead to the adoption of their dog Louis, and why he’s taking on this incredible challenge in her name.
My wife Lisa was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2015.
The statistics for ovarian cancer were incredibly worrying, with many not surviving beyond one year after their diagnosis.
Lisa was given 3–5-year life expectancy in 2015, so every day was a blessing that needed to be approached head on with positivity.
“A lifelong friendship is incredibly hard to find and even harder to live without once you’ve experienced it.”
Nick
We first met in 1985, when I caught sight of Lisa and knew she was someone special. We were married in 1993 and had 30+ years of adventures together.
Her diagnosis and condition never defined her where she lived the fullest life possible following her surgery and continued treatment.
In 2022, I went on hiking trip to the Pyrenees (The Freedom Trail), unfortunately Lisa was too unwell to join.
On this hike, we were joined by a rescue dog who was being fostered by one of the volunteers. I fell in love, adopted him and he became 'Louis' - who became an instant part of our family.
“By helping Ovarian Cancer Action in some small way, the hope is for a future where Ovarian Cancer will be a survivable disease.”
Nick
Lisa had a huge smile and would always put others first – a positive force that radiated warmth to all those around her.
As the ovarian cancer progressed, Lisa downplayed any question about her health. She would often offer a kind word of encouragement, telling people that there was no need to worry about her.
Just before our 30th wedding anniversary, Lisa sadly passed away in the summer of 2023 after living with her cancer for 8 years. She felt that she was one of the lucky ones.
I’m taking on this huge challenge to honour the memory of Lisa. A loss like this doesn’t get in easier, but you just get stronger.
“In the difficult days we must remember that better days are yet to come. There are people I’ve yet to meet and things yet to be experienced.”
Nick
Setting off on the 10th March, with their loved ones cheering them along, Nick and his beloved rescue dog Louis have started the ultimate walkies.
The duo have already met so many supportive people on the way – raising awareness of ovarian cancer as they go.
You can follow their journey on Instagram, join Nick and Louis on a walk to keep him motivated and donate to his mission via his website.
We’re so grateful to Nick and Louis for everything they are doing in Lisa’s memory. This will change the future for women with ovarian cancer.