Katie's story: hosting Coffee Morning in memory

In 2023, Katie’s mum, Pauline was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma. Mesothelium is a thin lining (membrane) that covers the outer surface of many organs in the body. When it affects the chest, it is called pleural mesothelioma and when it affects the abdomen, it is called peritoneal mesothelioma.

Pauline sadly died in 2024, but Katie is continuing her mum's passion for supporting charities by holding Coffee Morning events in her memory.

"It started with a cough in September 2023 and then she was diagnosed in November 2023. I was devastated. My world fell apart. She was my best friend, my person and I just couldn’t believe it. I knew it was an incurable cancer," says Katie.

"Last year we held our Coffee Morning at the tennis club my mum and I were members of. We served drinks, sold cakes and hosted a raffle and games. The weather was terrible; it was a very stormy day, so everyone turned up and stayed for ages spending money on cakes.

"It meant lots to me and meant a lot to everyone who came. It was lovely to see my mum's friends and talk to them about her. My mum loved doing stuff for charity and loved chatting with people.

"Macmillan nurses supported my mum when she was first diagnosed by coming to the house and talking with her about the stages of end of life. They sat and chatted to my dad and took him through the process, so he was aware of what was going to happen.

"They were all very supportive and caring."