Why skating Goodwood means so much – by Hell De Jour

I know it may be hard to believe, but every rollergirl has a life outside of roller derby (It’s true!!).
In my non-derby life I am Rachel Warry a teaching assistant in a nursery for children with Autism and social communication difficulties. It’s a job I love with a passion – almost as much as roller derby!
My job has many, many rewards, but sometimes just as many challenges.

Mitchell Huth is 6 years old, yet he’s one of the bravest people I have ever met. He’s a former pupil of mine, one of the first I taught. Mitchell is full of fun, humour, kindness and strength.

Sadly, last October we found out that Mitchell had been diagnosed with Neuroblastoma.

Neuroblastoma is a childhood cancer, with 100 children being diagnosed in the UK each year.
Mitchell had cancer cells all around his body including his kidney, liver and brain.
He is currently fighting the cancer, and has a tough fight on his hands, but he has had revolutionary treatments at Great Ormond Street Hospital including intensive Chemo- and Radiotherapy.
At the moment he is receiving Cis-retinoic acid treatment.

I am proud to say that my fellow Sirens have decided to join me in skating in the Goodwood Roller Marathon (14th August) in aid of GOSH and Mitchell.
I may not be able to put it very well in writing but I can tell you that many tears have been shed knowing that those girls who skate side by side with me on the track are right by my side in my ‘real life’ too, helping to make a difference in something so important and close to my heart.

Money raised by the Sirens skating Goodwood will be given directly to GOSH to help them to continue their amazing treatment and care they have offered Mitchell and thousands of other brave children.

The girls are also collecting cash which will be used to buy toys for Elephant Ward where Mitchell has been staying. We aim to refresh some of the tired toys on the ward and to buy electronic, hand held games and consoles that the children can play with in bed.

Please help us to thank GOSH for all of their hard work and care and show your support online by donating at: justgiving.com/seasidesirens or by texting HCKA59 £5 to 70070.

Alternatively you can give cash to your favourite Seaside Siren Roller Girl.

Thank you in advance, Rachel.

P.s.  My dear Sirens, I will be forever grateful for your support. I know each of you will be giving it your all, whether you skate the mini or the dual. You all mean so much to me and I am proud to skate with such kind hearted, tough spirited girls. See you on the track!
Love you always,

Hell x
SSRG! BOOM!!