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The Janis Connell Fund

Ian raised £6,678 as an individual before starting the fund in 2023.

£34,899.40

funds raised so far

Janis was a lovely lady and we met in 1977. I am very fortunate to have known Janis, to be husband & wife, best friends and soulmates. Janis enjoyed an active lifestyle across business, sport, travel and strong friendships.

In late February 2020, we noticed something may be wrong. Following various scans we discovered that Janis was suffering from a brain tumour and required emergency surgery, which took place at the Hull Royal Infirmary on 10 March. Post procedure we were told that Janis had a grade 4 Glioblastoma with a prognosis of 18 months. We were both in shock but immediately determined that we would fight this together and where Janis’ personality and character shone through by her shear determination and bravery.

Quality of Life was a focus for the days ahead. 23 March 2020, the country entered covid lockdown which meant that it was difficult to maintain the social life that Janis enjoyed. We did, however, discover Zoom and the ability to see and talk to friends form the comfort of our homes.

For the next 2 years our lifestyle resembled normality even with the speech deficiency that Janis suffered. Apart from Janis’ own force of character, we were hugely indebted to the Oncologist and nursing team from Castle Hill hospital for the care and advice that they imparted every month as the chemotherapy did its job.

Sadly after 27 months Janis’ condition started to deteriorate and after 30 months Janis passed away, fortunately without pain or distress and with me by her side. From an original prognosis of 18 months, Janis lived for 30 months following the operation – a testament to her determination and natural fitness.

At Christmas 2022, I decided that I needed to do something. My plan is simple, undertake fundraising activities for all proceeds to go to helping the scientists find a cure for Glioblastoma. I have started this process with the Twilight walk in 2023 and a Charity Dinner, with more event to be organized in the months and years ahead.

Brain Tumour sufferers need our fundraising and support and I speak from personal experience. If you feel able to support this effort, please help with any donation that you are able to provide. All money will go to a focused research project.

The last 3 years have changed my own life’s focus and I will continue to do my bit!

Regards

Ian