As many of you know, one of our key calls for change, in improving earlier diagnosis of cancer, focuses upon research into and availability of diagnostic blood tests. Simon and I also support this in our fundraising through our 'Walking 4 Jess'.

This week the media have featured news about the Galleri blood test,  which picks up fragments of DNA linked to cancer in the blood. The test, which aims to detect more than 50 types of cancer before symptoms show, hopes to prevent as many as one in ten cancer deaths in the UK. This is wonderful news. Wonderful news except the demographic it aims to screen does not include the under 50s. We find ourselves back to statistical likelihood. Yes, cancer is rare in our younger generations. Rare but, as many of us know, not that rare. Once again the 10% of all cancer deaths in the 25 - 49 age range appear to be forgotten.

Jess, like many others, assumed the 'full' blood tests carried out on her behalf would highlight or rule out cancer. Not so. Not even when cancer was rampaging throughout her body.

The Galleri test aims to detect more than 50 types.of cancer. Jess’ cancer was so advanced and widespread that she never knew, and we will never know, where it began. It is likely it was in her oesophagus or gut. It would seem the Galleri test would have the potential to detect such cancers early.

Jess’ Law, legislation requesting that after the third contact with a GP surgery about a condition/symptom a case should be elevated for review. and after 5 it should be red-flagged, would benefit enormously from a simple diagnostic blood test, A blood test to eliminate the possibility of cancer when symptoms are persistent but hard to diagnose. 

Please keep raising awareness. Write to your MP. Share this petition.

EVERYONE deserves a chance to be diagnosed early. Early diagnosis saves lives and also saves the NHS money.

Jess should be joining the throngs of people enjoying a holiday this summer. Our spot on the beach feels devastatingly silent in her absence.

Thank you for all you do to continue to raise awareness 4 Jess and this petition. We read all your comments and we are so grateful for your continued love and appreciation of Jess.