Parents complete charity walk in daughter's memory

Gemma Fay died last year after battling a rare form of cancer

The parents of an "inspirational" daughter who died from a rare form of cancer have raised almost £8,000 for charity in her memory.

Gemma Fay was diagnosed with a soft tissue cancer in her hip, called synovial sarcoma, in September 2020.

She died three years later, days after her 25th birthday. Her parents took part in a walking challenge to raise money for Young Lives vs Cancer which supported the family.

"We are so thankful to Gemma, for being such an inspiration to us all and for the many hearts and lives she touched with her warm, positive approach to life and her beautiful smile," said Gemma's mother, Rachel.

Mrs Fay wore her daughter's old walking shoes to complete the challenge

Mrs Fay and her husband Stuart, from West Grimstead, near Salisbury, and seventeen family friends joined together as a team called Gems Shining Lights to take part in the Jurassic Coast Ultra Challenge last weekend.

They walked 25km in memory of Gemma and raised almost £8,000 for Young Lives vs Cancer, the charity formerly known as CLIC Sargent.

“The challenge was an incredible achievement by all who took part," said Mr Fay.

"We are pleased we can do our bit and give something back. Gemma was looking down on us and cheering us on."

Five of Gemma's close friends took part in the charity walk

While Gemma was undergoing treatment, her parents were able to stay in Young Lives vs Cancer accommodation and the charity's social workers provided "crucial support, advice and guidance".

“Gemma truly lived life to the full when she was able to and loved the outdoors and being by the sea, so this seemed a good challenge to take on," said Mrs Fay.

"I was pleased to wear Gemma’s walking boots on the challenge, which felt incredible.

"Gemma would be so proud of us and for raising so much money for Young Lives vs Cancer. Gemma’s light was shining bright.”

Senior fundraising engagement manager for Young Lives vs Cancer, Liz Blunt, said the money will be spent on supporting other young cancer patients and their families.

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