By Leicester Mercury | Posted 6 March, 2013
A woman who lost her mother to cancer is taking part in the annual fund-raising Loros Twilight Walk as a thank-you for the charity's support.
Fiona White's mum, Lucy Mathieson, died at home in December 2004, aged 73, just four months after she was diagnosed with the disease.
A fiercely independent woman, it was thanks to LOROS and her GP that Lucy was able to retain her freedom and be treated at home.
Fiona, who lives in Ratby, is taking part in the LOROS Twilight Walk with three friends.
She said: "LOROS were able to offer my mum respite care, in the form of day care, before she became too ill to go.
"They would send a bus to pick her up and that gave my dad a chance to have a rest – a chance to sleep or put his feet up and not have to worry about her for a bit, because he knew she was being looked after.
"My mum was an amazing, independent lady all her life and I thank LOROS for helping her keep that to the end."
Lucy, who lived in Scraptoft with husband Jim, was diagnosed with lung cancer on August 25, 2004, after suffering from severe headaches and vomiting for a couple of weeks.
The cancer had already spread to her brain and doctors said they could only give her treatment to make her last few months more comfortable.
"We came home and were all in a state of shock," said Fiona.
"We were put in touch with LOROS and, through them, we were able to support her at home, with the help of nurses.
"It sounds strange, but it was a privilege to be able to help nurse her at home."
Fiona said she wanted to give something back to LOROS.
"I donate to cancer charities and have done the Race For Life several times," she said.
"The Twilight Walk was suggested by a friend on Facebook and I thought I'd take part."
The theme for the walk this year is Back to School.
It takes place on Saturday, March 23, starting at the King Power Stadium, at 7.15pm.
Fiona said: "I've already raised £140 so it's going well and I'm looking forward to it.
"It's a fun way of fund-raising, it's a nice social thing and it's a cause that's close to my heart."
A LOROS spokesman said: "The Twilight Walk is a fun-filled night, but it is also a chance to remember loved ones. The 'in-memory' balloon release before the walk is truly a sight to behold. It helps to create a real sense of occasion."
Sponsor Fiona at: www.justgiving.com/ fiona-white4
