Dudley Woman's Holiday Cough Leads to Tragic Cancer Diagnosis
Jess Roberts, a 35-year-old woman from Dudley, tragically passed away after a persistent cough during a holiday unveiled the devastating return of her breast cancer. Her partner, Darren Whitley, is now preparing to run the London Marathon alone in her memory, raising crucial funds for the Marie Curie charity that provided compassionate end-of-life care.
Initial Battle and Brief Victory Over Cancer
Jess Roberts was first diagnosed with stage three breast cancer at the age of 29, after discovering a lump in her breast. She underwent an intensive treatment regimen including approximately five months of chemotherapy, a mastectomy, reconstruction surgery, and a course of radiotherapy. By December 2018, she received the all-clear, marking a significant victory in her health journey.
The couple celebrated this milestone with a holiday to Thailand, and in 2019, Darren ran the London Marathon for the Institute of Cancer Research. In 2022, Jess herself participated in the London Marathon for Breast Cancer Care, crossing the finish line alongside Darren, an achievement she had eagerly anticipated on her bucket list.
Devastating Return and Rapid Decline
In September 2023, during a trip to Dublin, Jess developed a bad cough that stubbornly persisted. Initially treated for fluid on the lungs, further tests revealed the heartbreaking news: her breast cancer had returned as secondary cancer, spreading to her lungs and liver. Darren described the moment as feeling "back to day one," shattering their hopes that the cancer chapter was behind them.
Jess was diagnosed with stage four terminal cancer, though doctors initially suggested she might have years left. After several rounds of chemotherapy proved ineffective, medical professionals concluded there was nothing more they could do. Despite this, Jess and Darren cherished their final moments together, including a Christmas celebration and a trip to Disneyland Paris in early 2024, where she managed three full days on her feet.
Final Days and Marie Curie Support
Soon after, Jess's health deteriorated rapidly. The cancer spread to her brain, causing confusion and loss of independence. Darren brought her home from Russells Hall Hospital in Dudley to their Stourbridge residence on April 11, 2024. The following day, he contacted Marie Curie, who sent nurse Michelle to provide 12 hours of overnight care, allowing Darren and Jess's mother, Joanna, to rest.
Darren expressed immense gratitude for the Marie Curie team, highlighting their calming influence and expertise. "I cannot speak highly enough of Marie Curie," he said. "It's incredible what they do. A Marie Curie nurse has got the knowledge and the bedside manner as well." Jess passed away peacefully at home on April 13, 2024, with their beloved Cavapoo dog, Calvin, by her side.
Marathon Tribute and Fundraising Efforts
Darren Whitley, a 36-year-old banking professional, will run the TCS London Marathon on April 26, 2026, with a photo of Jess on his top. This will be his sixth marathon and fourth in London, but the first without Jess by his side. He aims to raise funds for Marie Curie, emphasizing that a donation of £23 can cover an hour of vital nursing care for someone with a terminal illness.
Darren encourages others in similar situations to seek support from Marie Curie, stating, "It's not an admittance that you can't do it. It's purely there to help you and support you." His participation in the marathon, where Marie Curie is the charity of the year, serves as a poignant tribute to Jess's memory and their shared journey.
