This IS important .. It’s World Blood Cancer Day!

by Claire | May 26, 2023 | Mission 50 for DKMS

28th May is super important.. It’s World Blood Cancer Day. As a former Oncology Nursing Sister and proud Ambassador for DKMS, the Blood Cancer Charity, this weeks Blog is totally focused on sharing with you MORE about this very special day.

As always, I’d love you to grab a cuppa and find a comfy spot to read more about why it’s important, how you can get involved and much more.. Here we go..

Every 27 seconds, someone somewhere in the world is diagnosed with blood cancer.
DKMS

Shocking isn’t it?

So in the time it’s taken you to start reading this blog, someone has just received simply devastating news that they have Blood Cancer. It creates a huge ripple, affecting not just themselves, but their family, friends, collagues and so on..

On this day, every day and especially on World Blood Cancer Day on Sunday 28th May, I’m asking for your help: to help me spread awareness and support for DKMS and the incredible work they do – Every. Single. Day.

“A blood cancer diagnosis is a shock and often marks the start of a race against time. For many patients, their only chance of survival is to find a matching blood stem cell donor, as fast as possible.”
DKMS

What do you need to know?

The term “blood cancer” is a general description of various hematopoietic cancers; such as

Leukaemia; a type of blood cancer that affects blood cells in your bone marrow.

Lymphomas: constitute a large and diverse group of neoplasms originating from the lymphoid system. Depending on which cells in the lymphatic system the cancer originates from, it can cause different symptoms and affect different organs. Among lymphomas there are non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and Hodgkin lymphoma (HL).

Multiple myeloma: Plasma cell myeloma, also known as multiple myeloma, is a cancer of the bone marrow.

This must watch two minute video from DKMS explains what blood cancer is and how the blood cancer develops:

What is DKMS?

DKMS is an international nonprofit organisation dedicated to the fight against blood cancer and blood disorders. They are constantly working to convince as many people as possible to join the blood stem cell register. The best way to share with you just how important DKMS is by showing you this 3 minute video –

“My big dream is that every patient will be saved from blood cancer and other blood disorders.

When they get sick, we have a solution for them; whether it’s a donor, improving therapies through research, or simply helping to provide access to transplantation.

In this approach, we see no borders, believing that everyone, everywhere, deserves a second chance at life. We will keep fighting for them and keep spreading the word, recruiting donors, raising money.

Whatever it takes to make this dream a reality.”
Katharina Harf, daughter of the founder of DKMS and Vice Chairwoman of the DKMS Foundation Board

How you can help…?

There are so many ways you can help make your mark against Blood Cancer. You could help me to raise awareness, join the register, or take on a fundraising challenge. Anything you can do to help really does make a difference – even simply sharing this blog….

So, let’s go into a little more detail:

Sign up as a potential blood stem donor with @dkms_uk by requesting a swab kit and sending it back. Please tell your friends and family to do the same!

Order a swab kit online: Answer a few simple questions about yourself to make sure you’ll be able to safely donate if needed. If it’s a yes, then you’ll be directed to a page where you can request your swab kit online.

Swab your cheeks and return your kit: Swab the inside of your cheeks and send the swabs back to DKMS (there are instructions on the pack that you’ll be sent).

The swabs will then be analysed in the lab to determine your HLA (tissue) characteristics – this is how donors and patients are matched.

You’ll be added to the register: Once your samples have been analysed, you’ll be added to the register and you will be available for patients all around the world who are searching for a donor. Isn’t that amazing!

You are a match: If you come up as a potential match for someone, the donation process can begin. The DKMS team will be in touch as soon as possible.

They will ask you for a blood sample to confirm that you are the best possible match for the person in need of a transplant.

Peripheral blood stem cell donation: In 90% of cases, stem cells are collected peripherally (apheresis). This involves taking stem cells directly from the bloodstream. You’ll be able to have this done as an outpatient and it does not require surgery.

Bone marrow donation. In 10% of cases, the stem cells are collected from the back of your pelvic bone. This is carried out under general anaesthetic.

The patient receives your blood stem cells. The collected blood stem cells are transplanted to the patient, in a procedure similar to a blood transfusion.

A second chance at life. Your job is done and your incredible donation will help to give someone a second chance at life.

World Blood Cancer Day is Sunday 28th May

“We celebrate life every day”
DKMS Motto

How else can I help?

Make It Red

This year DKMS have launched the #makeitred theme. If you decide to make a red cake, turn your social media red, don a red jumper, put on red shoes or apply red lipstick. It’s totally fine by us. whatever you choose, let’s make it red!

Blood Cancer Patients needs our help more than ever after the pandemic. We are in urgent need of new potential lifesavers to sign up, so why not consider sharing a selfie wearing something red using the hashtag #MakeItRed.

Nominate a family member or friend to do the same and make sure they order a home swab kit.

You’ll be in good company, because you’ll be joined by some of our amazing celebrity supporters, as well as some much appreciated political support from MP’s, who will all be making it red to support DKMS.

“4 out of 10 people looking for an unrelated matching donor worldwide are not able to find a match. But you can help us change this.”
DKMS

Make a donation or get involved in my Mission 50!

It costs DKMS £40 to register just one potential blood stem cell donor. Not everyone who signs up is able to contribute towards this cost, so they need our help. As DKMS say ” you provide the hope and they will cover the rest!”

womanonamission supporting dkms textworld blood cancer day

You may remember I’ve been taking on some Missions throughout 2022 and beyond. My fundraising page is still open should you wish to donate there or see which Missions I’ve completed and which ones I have left to do.

There are many ways you can support and raise valuable funds – including using give as you shop, via easy fundraising. which means you can raise FREE donations for Mission 50 and DKMS, every time you shop online. Over 4,000 shops and sites will donate to this page when you use easyfundraising to shop with them – at no extra cost to yourself!

images of shops logos to support world blood cancer day

These donations really mount up and make a BIG difference to me and the Charity, so we’d really appreciate it if you could take a moment to sign up and support @DKMS_UK and I. It’s completely FREE and only takes a moment.

Simply click this link and Easyfundraising will do the rest! They’ll turn a percentage of your spend into free funds for DKMS! Simply sign up and start shopping. It’s that simple – I love it!

“The aftermath of the pandemic means blood cancer patients need our help more than ever, and we are in urgent need of new potential lifesavers to sign up to join our register.”
DKMS

Join me in the 5km virtual run, jog or walk. This is our second year hosting the event and I’d love you to take part.

Register here and join me virtually or in person on Thursday 6th July, where we will be running, jogging or walking 5km for DKMS. All finishers receive a medal and a tee shirt. (There is an option to opt out of receiving the finishers gifts)We would LOVE you to take part and share your sweaty selfies with us Register here

Buy a Perfect Touch Collection, a stunning collection of products to treat your hands. For every collection sold, £5 is donated to Mission 50 for DKMS. Find out more

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to read this blog. I’m passionate about doing what I can, to help DKMS do what they can, in their Mission. I’m a firm believer that, we can all do a little something to support others – TODAY I’ve love you to show your support for DKMS.

I’d be so grateful if you can please share this post – we need to get the important information to as many people as possible and YOU can help that.. Click the little arrow and share away.

Be sure to keep updated on my Mission 50 here or on my Instagram page

On behalf of DKMS, thank you so much.

Sending love as always

Little Mission ~ From South Milton Sands To Hope Cove.

by Claire | May 8, 2023 | Home And Living, The Great Outdoors

This little hike from South Milton Sands to Hope Cove along the South West Coast Path in South West Devon is one of my favourite walks. It lies in the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and with the stunning views, you can see why.

This walk is a 1.6km moderately easy route, with an incline of 52m. (We love to walk into Hope Cove and back again, which equates to approx 3km)

The South Milton to Hope Cove is route popular with bird watchers, hikers and walkers. The path is mostly exposed so be mindful of the Devon sunshine and winds in the cooler months.

Getting There

By Train: The closest stations are Ivybridge 14 miles away and Totnes 17 miles away.

By Bus: Buses to South Milton and Thurlestone run from Kingsbridge. The 606 TALLY HO! service runs from Kingsbridge on the hour, taking around 6 minutes and dropping passengers 1 mile outside of South Milton.

By Car: 4 miles outside Kingsbridge. From Kingsbridge take the A381 towards Salcombe. Turn right to South Milton village, then turn left (signposted) to the beach. Please note, the approach road to the beach from the village of South Milton is a narrow lane with limited passing places.

Parking

Park at the National Trust car park at South Milton Sands. Remember your National Trust Card if you’re members and you’ll be able to park for free. It’s a small car park and can get really busy especially during the holidays, so plan your arrival time.

Maps

The route (below) can be found on the Ordnance Survey maps. Ordnance Survey have created an app so you can have unlimited OS Explorer and Landranger maps on any device making it easy for you to explore the great outdoors. (It even works when you are out of signal – perfect for our South West Coast path hikes!)

I’m an old fashioned girl and love the option to print out your own custom routes and maps to take with you so you are never stuck without a map. You can choose the scale, orientation and size that suits you. Always with a waterproof carrier, the Devon weather can be interchangeable! Find out what else I take with me on my hikes here.

The Route

The walk from South Milton Sands to Hope Cove, starts along the beautiful South Milton Beach or along the little main road if you prefer and is clearly signposted. Grid Reference: SX6769 4142

If you decide to start along the beach, be sure to take a look at the well known Thurlestone Rock. It’s a spectacular rock off the coast in the shape of an arch.

south milton sands to hope cove thurlestone rock

Follow the path, keeping the sea to your right. As the road comes to a bend veering left, follow the path to the right which takes you towards the sea and back to the coast path. You’ll be guided through a kissing gate and along a single file path past a house. (see below)

As the sea comes back into view, the path takes a gradually incline where the views become even more outstanding. this area is known as the Great Ledge. Looking back along the path, you’ll be able to see Burgh Island and the famous Burgh Island Hotel and on an extremely clear day, out to see you’ll be able to spot the lighthouse right out to sea.

The South West Coast path is narrow at times so single file is required. As you head out of South Milton you’ll notice a slow gradual incline, maxing 52m. There are a couple of stunning benches along the way should you wish to stop, take a breather and admire the view.

As you continue towards Hope Cove, there is a little decline before your final little climb which brings to to your first sighting of beautiful Hope Cove. Here you’ll start the gradual decline down the coastal path towards Outer Hope. The last few metres of the path take you down some steps and onto the pavement leading to Hope Cove itself.

Hope Cove

Hope Cove is a beautiful seaside village, full of thatched cottages, two sheltered beaches and stunning views. It’s what springs to mind when we think of the old fashioned “chocolate box” . Here you’ll find rock pools, kayakers and stand up paddle boarders, together with a couple of places to quench your thirst and take care of your appetite, before either resting and taking in the view or heading back to South Milton Sands.

This walk from South Milton Sands to Hope Cove is forever a favourite of ours and I hope you can see why. Have you ever walked this part of the South West Coast Path? I hope I’ve inspired you visit this beautiful stretch of the Devon Coastline. I’d love to know in the comments.

With love

A Little Mission: Super Simple Family Recipe ~ Roast Chicken TrayBake

by Claire | Apr 21, 2023 | Lifestyle, Recipes

When life feels full and you’re craving something comforting yet effortless, this super simple family recipe might just be your new go-to. A roast chicken tray bake that’s big on flavour, low on fuss, and loved by everyone around the table. This little mission is all about slowing down, simplifying mealtimes, and making dinner something to look forward to — not stress over.

Super Simple Roast Chicken Tray Bake

Prep: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Serves: 2 (double for a family of four!)

Ingredients:

2 red onions (320g), sliced into rings
1 large red pepper, deseeded and chopped into 3cm chunks
300g potatoes, peeled and cut into 3cm chunks (I use Charlotte potatoes)
2 tbsp rapeseed oil
4 bone-in chicken thighs, skin and fat removed
1 lime, zested and juiced
3 large garlic cloves, finely grated
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp thyme leaves
2 tsp vegetable bouillon powder
200g long stem broccoli, cut into lengths (or tender stem broccoli in season)

“We build deep and loving family relationships by doing simple things together, like family dinner … and just by having fun together.”
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf “of all things that matter most

Method

Preheat the oven to 200°C / 180°C fan / gas 6.
Toss the onion, pepper, potatoes, and oil in a non-stick roasting pan. Roast for 15 minutes.
Rub the chicken with lime zest, garlic, paprika, and thyme.
Remove the vegetables from the oven, stir, and nestle the chicken thighs among them. Cover the thighs with some onions and roast for 40 minutes.
Mix 200ml boiling water with bouillon powder.
Remove the tray from the oven, add the broccoli, and pour over the hot stock and lime juice. Cover with foil and roast 10 more minutes until the broccoli is just tender.

This dish is perfect for lunches, midweek suppers, or even leftovers the next day. Super simple family recipes make life so much easier, and I hope you enjoy this one as much as we do.

super simple family recipe great for leftover

This recipe is great for lunches, midweek suppers and is even better the next day – should there be any left!

Let me know in the comments below or join the conversation over on Instagram — I’d love to hear how yours turns out.

If you’d like more super simple family meals and inspiration for stress-free cooking, you’ll find plenty more ideas in my Recipe Collection — it’s full of easy, delicious dishes for busy days.

Stay happy and healthy,

A Little Mission – Join Me On National Walking Day

by Claire | Apr 5, 2023 | Home And Living, The Great Outdoors

sunshine in the park, captures national walking day

The first Wednesday of April is National Walking Day in the UK and I’d love you to join me on a walk to celebrate. Read on to find out more about why we celebrate this special day.

I love to walk and put on my walking boots almost daily to stomp in the Devon lanes. So that probably makes me a little biased about this wonderful day! I found myself on this years National Walking Day in one of the many parks in Sheffield. Did you know it’s a 15 minute city?

What is a 15 Minute City

“Everyone living in a city should have access to essential urban services within a 15 minute walk or bike. The 15-Minute City Project is designed to help access-focused urban transformations be what we need them to be: ambitious, inclusive, measurable and effectively implemented.”

Why Walk?

There are so many benefits to getting outside in the fresh air, rain or shine.

Getting outside is an important element to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Walking is a great way to get out doors and get your daily dose of vitamin D (did you know a deficit of this important vitamin can mimic signs of depression?)

It improves our health. Walking for 20-30 minutes or maintaining 10,000 steps per day is an effective way to improve your own health, physical and mental well-being

It’s easy to do – No weights necessary. No special skills or talents. Just get out there and walk!

Walking increases blood flow to the brain and does wonders our mood.

Regular walks can help to prevent cardiovascular diseases, lower your blood sugar and boost immune function. Walking for 30 minutes can also help maintain a healthy weight

Walking can help improve your sleep, all that fresh air!

On top of that, it is free and easy to fit into our daily routines.

I love to walk first thing in the morning before everyone wakes up. The best time of day for getting some vitamin D and daylight on to our faces.

A mini Mission for you – to embrace today and get outside, rain or shine and go for a walk.

As Hippocrates says “Walking is man’s best medicine.”

Will you join me on a walk today? Or better still, add a walk to your daily or weekly #powerofanhour Share with a friend you’d love to walk with!

Introducing The Hold My Hand Campaign for Blood Cancer Awareness

by Claire | Apr 1, 2023 | Mission 50 for DKMS

I’m delighted to introduce to you a brand new Campaign “Hold My Hand” to raise awareness for Blood Cancer.

I’m working with one of the leading Ambassadors for Tropic Skincare, Carol Massey, to bring you a real treat whilst raising money for the blood cancer charity DKMS.

Why?

As a former oncology nurse, I know the power of touch which can often say so much more than words in times of difficulty and sadness. .

As Ambassador for the blood cancer charity DKMS, I’m honoured to be sharing this new campaign with you. Find out more about my Mission50 for DKMS

One of the many things we felt a huge sense of loss with during the Pandemic. We know how nurturing it is to feel the power of touch. A simple gesture which can show so many emotions from empathy, friendship and love. A simple but powerful gesture to show you care and understand.

What is the “Hold My Hand” Campaign?

The Perfect Touch Collection, from Tropic Skincare, is a beautiful collection of 3 products that will nourish, strengthen and repair your hands, perfect for hand holding!

The Hold My Hand campaign is a collaboration between Tropic Skincare Ambassador Carol Massey and myself.

For every Perfect Touch Collection sold, £5 will be donated to the Mission5o for DKMS, the blood cancer charity. (Please using the special QR code or link featured in this blog)

Every Perfect Touch Collection sold between April 1st and May 31st 2023, (using the special QR code or link,) £5 will be donated to the #mission50 campaign for DKMS, the blood cancer charity.
BY ORDERING THIS VERY SPECIAL COLLECTION, YOU’LL BE SUPPORTING THE BLOOD CANCER CHARITY DKMS, THANK YOU.

The Perfect Touch Collection is presented in a beautiful gift box and features three products:

The iconic Superfood Hand Therapy which conditions and brightens your skin,

The nail block to shape, buff and smooth nails

and

Oh so pretty Nail Nectar will nourish and strengthen your nails.

All that’s left for you to do is apply some polish and you’ve got a five-star at-home manicure!

Please use the QR Code below or click here to order your Collection.

Who is The Perfect Touch Collection for:

Everyone!

Someone who needs a little pick me up.

Nurture your hands especially if you are a keen gardener or busy with DIY this spring, this Collection is a super way to keep your hands nourished and soft. .

This collection makes the perfect gift for YOU and for any of your friends; birthdays, anniversaries and just because!

At times of worry and stress, especially when you or your loved one is going through a tough time, all we want to do is help.

Sometimes a listening ear and the touch of a hand are gestures that really makes all the difference.

Every Perfect Touch Collection sold between April 1st and May 31st 2023, (using the link or special QR code) £5 will be donated to #Mission50forDKMS campaign for blood cancer.
By ordering this very special collection, you’ll be supporting the blood cancer charity DKMS Thank you.

Find out more about my Mission50 for the blood cancer charity, DKMS

Important Information

Please add £2.00 per collection ordered for postage contribution. Please note, for £5 from each collection sold to be donated to DKMS, collection must be ordered via me or by using the links in the blog. Remember to order between April 1st and May 31st 2023.

If you’d like to collect your order from me and join us on a very special coffee morning, watch this space!

Thank you as ever from the bottom of my heart for your support with my Mission to raise as much awareness as I can for this incredible charity DKMS

Love

Stay in touch by following me on Instagram I’d love to see your Perfect Collection and hands using the hashtag #holdmyhandfordkms

For every Collection sold between April 1st and May 31st 2023, (using the link or special QR code) £5 will be donated to #Mission50forDKMS campaign for blood cancer.
BY ORDERING THIS VERY SPECIAL COLLECTION, YOU’LL BE SUPPORTING THE BLOOD CANCER CHARITY DKMS. THANK YOU.

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Hi, I'm Claire

I’m the creator of Woman on a Mission, a lifestyle space dedicated to helping women bring more calm, confidence and balance into everyday life. Born from my own journey to slow down and live with greater intention, it offers inspiration around wellbeing, organisation, home and mindset, one meaningful mission at a time

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