THE death of a woman whose cancer battle was inspired by a fund-raising singer, has helped generate almost £950 for vital health equipment.
Kath Murphy, of Fulwell, died aged 65 last month after a second fight against the killer illness.
She was diagnosed with melanoma 16 years ago and despite successfully beating it, the cancer eventually returned.
Now, in her memory, £948.68 has been passed on by family and friends of the mum of two and grandmother of three.
Mrs Murphy’s family were inspired by Washington singer Maggie Ross, who also died last month.
Thirty years ago, Maggie recorded the single Come On In, to help the Charlie Bear for Cancer Care appeal smash its £1million target to provide equipment to Newcastle General Hospital.
The campaign now needs £3million for the region’s first cyber surgery machine to deliver high doses of radiation to small tumours.
Despite being told her condition was terminal, just weeks before her death Maggie was performing at a concert to raise cash for the cause.
In a chance meeting with Maggie, Mrs Murphy’s daughter Nicola Learoyd struck up a friendship with the blues singer.
Nicola, 42, of Roker, said: “She was an amazing woman, absolutely amazing.
“It was me and my aunty who met Maggie when she was having treatment and she was just a lovely woman.”
Nicola, who is mum to Ethan, 18, Olivia, 12, and Harry, 11, added: “The appeal needs something like £3million and we wanted to do this for people to be aware that it’s such an amazing thing.
“It will reduce treatment time for patients who are ill and that can only be a good thing.”
Mrs Murphy died on September 20 and also leaves behind husband Eddie, 68, and son Declan, 30.
To donate to the Charlie Bear Appeal, visit www.justgiving.com/charliebear or text BEAR78 followed by the amount you want to give to 70070 or call 213 8615.
Twitter: @davidallison88
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