Letters, contributions and comments sent in to the Advertiser this week.

Help fight ovarian cancer

Sarah Greene, Target Ovarian Cancer ambassador, writes:

When my mother Marjie Lawrence died from ovarian cancer seven years ago, I promised myself I would speak up so that others wouldn’t suffer in the same way.

I joined Target Ovarian Cancer because it is a charity determined to make the changes that will save lives. They have worked tirelessly on symptoms awareness and this is taking effect.

BUT the fact is that UK women are facing a demographic time bomb in ovarian cancer. In my capacity as ambassador to Target Ovarian Cancer, I’m writing to tell you that enough is enough. Our new campaign bears our most powerful message to date and signifies that now is the time for change:

It’s time to TAKE OVAR.

Funding for new research into ovarian cancer drugs has dropped by one third in the past five years. Without this research we will be unable to establish new treatments for the disease.

More funding is required as soon as possible. For Marjie it was too late, but this situation can change if we act now.

• Please join Target Ovarian Cancer to raise awareness, fund research and save lives. Get involved at targetovariancancer.org.uk/TAKEOVAR

Run to help pets

Paul Manktelow, principal of Regional Vet Services at PDSA, writes:

Many runners recently found out whether they have been lucky enough to secure an eagerly anticipated ballot place in the 2018 Virgin Money London Marathon.

To celebrate 100 years of caring for sick and injured pets, PDSA want to field their biggest ever team of animal lovers. By joining Team PDSA, you’ll be making a difference to the lives of thousands of pets and their owners with nowhere else to turn.

For runners who successfully secured a ballot place, we would be delighted for you to join Team PDSA to help us raise awareness of the vital work our vets and nurses undertake every single day.

Runners joining Team PDSA will be given fantastic support, including a post-race party in London, an after-race sports massage and goody bag, and a passionate cheering squad to help them around the 26.2 mile course. Runners will be given advice and guidance to help fundraise, and support throughout their marathon journey.

• For anyone interested in running for PDSA please go to pdsa.org.uk/london-marathon to find out more.