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Ward manager for the Charles Dickens Chemotherapy Unit at Maidstone Hospital, Keli Tomlin, will be running the London Marathon this year for a very special cause.

Hayley’s Heroes was set up in memory of former cancer patient, Hayley Martin, who was a tireless fundraiser for Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust.

It was Hayley’s wish to be able to fund special treats for people undergoing chemotherapy – something she found helped her get through her own treatment, by having something to look forward to. The charity intends to help families as well as the individuals who are undergoing the treatment.

The trustees of the charity are Hayley’s family and friends. Keli, who was involved in Hayley’s cancer treatment for four years will provide and verify all referrals and requests to the charity.

Keli said: “So far, we have had requests for beauty treatments, afternoon tea and a short family break. These sorts of things can make a huge different to patients going through treatment and their loved ones and really do give them something to look forward to.

“Hayley’s belief was that ‘making magical memories’ was a hugely important part of getting through the treatment so I hope, and I am confident, that we will be able to help lots of people do just that.

“Hayley did so much for us, and I am delighted to be a part of this charity, which was something she felt incredibly passionate about.”

If you would like to support Keli, you can visit her fundraising page via this link – https://fundrazr.com/campaigns/f16uT3/tx/d5Ydjb

The charity has already received fantastic support from local people and businesses – through both the offers of services at a subsidised cost as part of Hayley’s Heroes (eg., beauty treatments), or through direct donations. The Queens Head Oddfellows Fund, who are based in Sutton Valence, recently donated £3,500 to the charity.

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Note to editors: Hayley Martin passed away on 16 January 2016, at the age of 31.