Today we are thinking of all Paula Coates’ loved ones on the first anniversary of her death. Paula (pictured in Skiathos – her favourite holiday destination) is the inspiration for our Fundraising Group, the Paula Coates Fund, set up by her father-in-law Ray before she passed away.
Paula was 47 and a long distance runner with at least 10 marathons, including the London Marathon, under her belt, when she was diagnosed in early 2021 with an aggressive and incurable glioblastoma (GBM) brain tumour. She had been suffering with excruciating headaches and vomiting.
After surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, Paula was stable for a while until an MRI scan revealed in February 2022 there was regrowth. Paula went back on chemotherapy treatment and was also put on steroids, but it was later stopped when it was found to be no longer having any effect. Paula passed away, aged 48, on 4th October 2022.
The Fundraising Group has held a number of events including a Golf Day in July last year which raised around £6,000, and a firewalk this year, raising £3,000, when family friends, as well as Ray and Rob – Paula’s husband, braved hot coals. Some of Paula’s friends have raised funds through taking on the London Marathon and the Great North Run and Paula and Rob’s daughter Lucy climbed Ben Nevis, in September last year inspired by “all the walking holidays in the Lake District” she had with her parents over the years.
Lucy said: “I really enjoy being in the mountains and I know Mum always felt the same. I was raising funds for vital research to help bring hope to future patients diagnosed with brain tumours and to make Mum proud.”
To help fund the fight against brain tumours in Paula’s memory, make a donation here and give your reason as the Paula Coates Fund.
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