Cancer is so prevalent these days that the majority of people will experience the disease either directly or indirectly during their life. Some people experience it first hand and survive, others will have had cancer 'scares', and like Mary Aboagye, many will lose dear friends to the devastating disease.
In April 2012, Mary lost a very close friend to the rare and silent cancer, sarcoma. There are around 70 known sub-types of sarcoma which fall under three broad categories incorporating soft tissue cancers, primary bone cancers, and gastro-intestinal stromal tumours. It is unknown what exactly causes sarcomas in the body, however a small number have the propensity to be hereditary and there is evidence that suggests prolonged or intensive exposure to certain chemicals may increase the risk of developing some form of sarcoma.
With over 3200 new cases of sarcoma diagnosed in the UK each year, Mary is committed to raising awareness of the tireless effort from Sarcoma UK and Cancer Research UK, and to celebrate the life of a vibrant, loving, and kind woman called Lola.
During Lola's battle with sarcoma, Mary and a group of close friends decided to band together to create awareness for the disease and raise money to support on-going research in this field. Since her passing, Team LOLA has been raising money for Cancer Research UK, and would equally like to raise money for Sarcoma UK.
To show their support, Team LOLA has been training for Race for Life, a 5 km event that takes place in London's Hyde Park. To date, Team LOLA have raised over 80% of their target £1000 and have gained the support of Barclays Bank, who have committed to matching their target.
Mary describes Lola as a 'loving, giving, sensitive, and kind woman who was full of life and vigour. She had so much to offer to anyone she came in contact with' and explains that she had 'left an inspiring, fruitful, fulfilling legacy' for all to be involved in.
Despite the tragic loss of Lola, she was committed to supporting cancer research and with so many events and people dedicated to the cause, it is easy to become involved. Events like Race for Life are vital for supporting and funding cancer research such as that of Sarcoma UK. These events help to provide a network for cancer patients and their families, they provide a knowledge base, and contribute to the on-going effort to diagnose, treat, and hopefully in the future, produce preventatives for sarcoma.
Currently, Sarcoma UK is the foremost charity in the UK that deals with all types of sarcoma and provides support and information to people with sarcoma, their carers, relatives, and friends. With on-going campaigns and events, Sarcoma UK relies on voluntary donations and fundraising activities which Team LOLA have proved can be essential not just for funding, but to create a supportive network for friends and family who have lost someone dear to them.
To continue Lola's legacy and support cancer research, dig deep and sponsor Team LOLA online or join Team LOLA and be a part of helping raise awareness of this terrible disease.
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