19 Feb 2024

Liam and Megan run the Hackney Half Marathon for their Nan Pam

Liam Hobbins, from Rochester in Kent, and his sister Megan, from Bexleyheath in Kent, are running for Leukaemia UK in memory of their Nan Pam. 

Pam Hobbins

“She was a huge part of our lives,” said Liam. “When we were younger we’d spend most Saturdays together at the family-run football club her late father-in-law founded back in the 60s. She would keep us entertained whilst working away in the kitchen with her mum, sister and friend. We’d also meet up regularly on Sunday mornings as a family and go to the café. Even though we all looked at the menu we knew that she was always going to have a jacket potato! Despite us getting older and doing more things with our friends, partners etc., she always kept herself in a position to help and see us – especially if it involved going for a coffee and carrot cake at Cuore (her favourite!).”

Liam and Megan training for the Hackney Half Marathon

Pam died at the age of 72 in October 2023, less than a year after she was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML).  

“She was feeling generally ill and weak before Christmas in 2022,” said Liam. She went to the doctor quickly, just a week or so after symptoms started, and was given a blood test which diagnosed AML. Nan was at the hospital with our mum, and everyone else was going about their normal day at work as no one expected the outcome. It was a shock. We hadn’t heard of AML before. She was very brave and wasn’t scared.”

Pam, who lived in Welling in Kent, underwent nearly a year of gruelling treatment at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and at home. Her grandchildren watched her struggle with losing her hair and her appetite, and dealing with multiple infections due to her weakened immune system. 

“We wish that Nan Pam was still here with us today,” said Liam. “Despite decades of incredible progress, only half of leukaemia patients live longer than five years after their diagnosis. Along with Leukaemia UK, we believe research has the power to stop leukaemia devastating lives. To raise money for further awareness, research and treatment, we’re running the 2024 Hackney Half marathon in memory of our Nan Pam. We know this won’t bring her back, but any donations will give others the chance for a better life.”

Pam with her grandchildren

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