We wish to pay tribute to Michele Rodford, a truly inspirational lady, and friend who has sadly lost her battle to Cancer.

Michele, together with her friends and family, has raised tens of thousands of pounds to support our Cancer Fighting Fund for the benefit of future patients being cared for by our Empress Unit (Breast Cancer Unit) at Darent Valley Hospital.

Michele was always so positive and an absolute joy to be around, full of enthusiasm for her next fundraising idea. Our thoughts are with her family and friends who will be saying goodbye to her at 3pm today, Friday 15th May 2020. Our thoughts are with you all, and her efforts to support Breast Cancer care at our Hospital will not be forgotten. Love from us all at Valley Hospital Charity and Darent Valley Hospital xxx

"I have been very sad over the last few days at the news of Michelle’s passing away and so have been the whole of Breast team who knew her.  

She was so bubbly and full of cheer and always gave me a big hug and told me how much she loved me and the team. She was not one for social distancing!!

Michelle was a special person amongst thousands of patients even from the first time I met her. She was always a fighter and did her best to cope positively with all the treatment.  

Of particular note was her spirit and generosity in fundraising and wanting to help other patients. She had incredible motivation too - she once walked to my clinic (16 miles return trip I think) as a training exercise for her fundraising walks. 

She raised thousands of pounds for the Empress Breast Unit so we could buy cutting edge technology/ equipment and improve patient care. 

Together with Graham, her brother they fundraised over 80000/- for the hospital cancer fighting fund and breast unit and we are forever indebted to her for her drive and energy. 

Her contribution will continue to help thousands of women for years to come. 

I will miss her smile and positive energy and can only hope that her family find the strength to get through this. 

On behalf of the breast team and the hospital I would like to give our thanks for everything she did for others. 

May her soul rest in peace."  

Seema Seetharam

Lead Clinician for Breast Service – DVH