Mum thanks daughters and their team mates for support after 'devastating' cancer diagnosis

Christina Mole, 39, thought she just had an everyday chest infection, but five weeks ago she was rushed to University Hospital North Durham and after undergoing a number of tests was told she had small cell lung cancer.

After being diagnosed, Christina was sent to the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle, where she will be now be undergoing chemotherapy treatment until Christmas at the earliest.

Despite the devastating news, Christina’s husband and her two daughters Courtney, 17, and Olivia 15, quickly rallied round to support their mother and after news had spread to Courtney and Olivia’s teammates at Washington AFC, the club were keen to help out and support the family.

Washington AFC women’s first team captain and vice captain, Beth White and Abigail Phipps quickly arranged a ‘Kick Cancer’ charity event, raising £1,775 for Christina and her family.

Christina said: “The diagnosis had a devastating effect on the family. Getting the news totally blew us away but the girls and my husband Michael have been amazing. Everyone’s been very supportive and rallied round.

“After members of the club heard the news they immediately wanted to add their support. Washington AFC has been absolutely marvellous through everything and have been very supportive. They’re an extended family.”

During the ‘Kick Cancer’ fundraiser, the club held a special charity football game, car wash, cake sale and much more, all in order to support Christina through this difficult time.

The money raised will be used for Christina and her family to take a holiday away together and make some memories.

Christina, who lives in Spennymoor, added: “The whole day from start to finish was amazing. It was a really family fun day. I’m immensely proud of my two girls. The way they’ve took everything on board and kept going with school and sixth form, they’ve just taken everything in their stride.”

Since beginning treatment, Christina says she is feeling stronger and positive and is taking each day as it comes.

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