Sandra first became connected to The Christie hospital when her husband Dave was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in July 2023. Dave was referred to The Christie for chemotherapy but unfortunately caught pneumonia soon after this, delaying some of his treatment.
Tragically, by the time Dave was well enough to resume treatment, the cancer had spread to other parts of his body. In June 2024, he was diagnosed with a brain tumour – Sandra said they were devastated at the news. Just a week later, on 20 June 2024, Dave and Sandra were married at The Christie, a day that Sandra said was wonderful and special.
62 days after Dave and Sandra got married, Dave died. Sandra said that when he died, she not only lost her husband but her soulmate, her rock and her friend.
To say thanks to everyone at The Christie for Dave’s treatment, Sandra is taking on The Christie Charity Festive Dash along with her daughter and son-in-law. The Christmas-themed event is a 5k walk, jog or run around Heaton Park in Prestwich, north Manchester on Sunday 23 November 2025. As a special tribute to Dave, Sandra will be running in race number 2006, commemorating the date of her and Dave’s wedding (20/06).
“From Dave's first visit to The Christie, to his final heartbreaking diagnosis, he was always very well looked after. I accompanied Dave to every appointment and during his chemotherapy sessions he was always relaxed and usually had a laugh with the nursing staff.
“I must admit before the first visit, my assumption of The Christie was that it would be an environment of doom and gloom but the minute we entered the premises, my fears were quashed. Despite so many cancer patients, family and friends always seemed upbeat. I feel this was due to the fantastic treatment and wonderful hardworking staff, giving everyone hope and belief.
