An inspirational Eden woman who has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer has raised more than £2,800 for the Eden Valley Hospice.
Anna Granger, 55, shaved her head on Valentine’s Day to support the Cumbrian charity, which offers vital help to people with life-limiting conditions.
Her diagnosis came out of the blue three weeks ago and Anna is already receiving palliative care, with a five per cent chance of surviving longer than 12 months.
She said: “There is no point in crumbling. I don’t like a wasted opportunity.
“I’m going to make the most out of everything, so I wanted to support this fabulous local charity that does so much for our community. It’s just the way I am. I’m not going to lie down and feel sorry for myself. I’m going to do something.”
Anna, who has lived in Greystoke and Penruddock for the last 30 years and is the former owner of Mad Anna’s food van on the A66, has been inundated with caring wishes from the local community.
“It has been absolutely overwhelming. The most amazing, generous, beautiful people have sent messages of love and support to me. It’s just been incredible,” she said.
“I couldn’t feel bad with everyone sending me so much love. I’m very lucky to have so many friends and family members willing to support me. It’s mind-blowing.”
Anna has two married sons – Rob Anderson, of Great Salkeld, and Seth Norcott, of Penrith and three grandchildren all under the age of three.
“As a family we approach these things with humour, fun and head-on,” she said.
“It’s all that I can ask for to hear my sons say that they think I’m brave and inspirational. It really makes me happy to hear it from them.”
Seth works for Electricity North West and his tree-cutting team has donated more than £250 to the cause.
Anna said: “Charities have all lost out during the pandemic. I hope I can raise some awareness for the services out there, all funded by local people for local people to use.”
Anna sold her house in November 2019, and bought a motorhome with plans of travelling the world.
“It shows you how this could happen to anyone at any time. I’m just glad it was me and not a child,” she added.
“It all came out of nowhere. I didn’t even feel very ill. Three weeks ago, I had no idea I had cancer.
“Since then, I’ve received five one-to-one specialist consultations, seen specialist nurses, had brain scans and body scans, ultrasounds, biopsies and chemo.
“The people of the NHS are just not human. They are miracle machines and they are angels.
“I am so thankful to Macmillan, the Eden Valley Hospice and the NHS professionals. I’ve received the best care possible. They’ve all been superstars.
“I have lived my life to the fullest. I have no regrets and no bucket list. I’m going to make every day count.”
To donate to Anna’s cause, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/anna-granger2
