Robbie Stewart’s Great North Run in memory of his mam, Dawn

In 2023, Dawn Milling was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, at just 55 years old. Within a few weeks, she and her family were told her condition was terminal. 

Dawn’s son, Robbie, said, “My mam endured so much, yet she remained the most positive, radiant soul throughout.” 

In early January 2025, Dawn’s health had declined, and she needed extra care and support. Following a short hospital stay, Dawn was transferred to St Oswald’s Hospice, where her family say the difference was tangible.  

Robbie reflected. “On arriving at St Oswald’s Hospice, we felt transported to the most peaceful, easy-going, compassionate place. I saw the weight lift from my mam’s shoulders straightaway and it was a relief for all of us.” 

Before her diagnosis, Dawn was very fit and active, once out-planking a personal trainer in her local gym. She lived well, took pride in her appearance and enjoyed living her life, including partying with her sons and their friends, encouraging them to make the most of every day.  

As her condition progressed, Dawn had to slow down but that didn’t diminish her zest for life. She was able to enjoy delicious home cooked meals from the Hospice’s kitchen, spend time with her family around her and have her final wish fulfilled.  

Dawn’s final wish was simple: to feel clean again.   

Having experienced the busyness of hospital bathroom facilities, Dawn was looking forward to indulging in a jacuzzi bath experience at St Oswald’s Hospice.  

Robbie remembered, “One of mam’s last texts to me was to ask for a nail file – that was just her! The next day was ‘jacuzzi day’ and she was really excited to finally have a relaxing, peaceful bubble bath.  

“I came to see her straight after work and mam was glowing! She had fresh pyjamas, a cute head towel and this big, contented grin on her face.” 

It’s this image of his mam that will stay with Robbie forever.  

Dawn died at St Oswald’s Hospice a few days later, with her family by her side.  

Robbie said, “It was such a difficult time but as a family we were able to be together in a private room – and there was a lot of us – and offered everything we could have possibly needed. The care and love shown to us, and to my mam, was priceless and it meant everything.” 

Robbie added, “Seeing my mam so frail was heartbreaking. Cancer sucks but St Oswald’s Hospice gave her peace, comfort and dignity.  

“I’m running to raise money for this amazing place to help make sure other family’s can get the same love, care and support that we all did.  

“You cannot put a price on what they gave us in those final days.”