Everest trek in memory of dad

Pictured (left to right): Janine, Jodie and Alice at a previous PCUK event

Jodie and Alice Douglas will be joined by close friend Janine Habbin in their biggest fundraising challenge so far in memory of Phillip Douglas.

The girls have been supporting the charity Pancreatic Cancer UK since he lost his battle with cancer five years ago.

They began with 5k runs, moving to half marathons and then climbing Mount Fuji in Japan and taking on the Inca Trail in Peru.

Jodie (26) and Alice (24) said it had been a huge shock when Phillip was diagnosed with stage four, advanced, inoperable cancer.

Jodie, of Thorpe Hesley, added: “In September 2011, he visited the doctors after complaining of stomach pains. He was informed that the pains were nothing to worry about and was advised to take painkillers.

“The recurring pain got progressively worse and in February 2012, he went back to the doctors to get checked over again.

“A couple of weeks later, we received the devastating news that he had pancreatic cancer and was given only six months to live.

“Since his death, we’ve taken on a challenge to raise funds in his memory, with fundraising parties and raffles and we really appreciate any donations.”

Close friend Janine (26), of Wickersley, will join the sisters for the 92km Everest trek from March 8.

They will host a public charity party at House of Hugo, at the top of Sheffield’s Crystal nightclub, on Friday, February 9, to add to the funds raised for PCUK.

Pancreatic cancer has the lowest survival rate of the 21 most common cancers in the UK, with only five per cent living five years after diagnosis.

PCUK supports those affected and invests in ground-breaking research and lobbying for greater recognition of the disease.

Marianne Beggs, head of mass market fundraising at Pancreatic Cancer UK, said: “We are delighted the girls are taking part in the Everest base camp trek.

“We would like to wish them the very best of luck. The funds raised will help us to take on this tough disease, which around 9,600 people are diagnosed with every year in the UK, by offering vital support, investing in crucial research and being a voice for everyone affected by the disease.”

To sponsor Jodie, Alice and Janine, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jodie-dou glas28.