The mother and cousin of Falmouth teenager Sasha Watson, who lost her battle against cancer in February, have spoken of their heartache and her bravery as they prepare to run next year's London marathon and raise money for the hospice which supported them all during the youngsters's final weeks.

Michelle Bray and Jenna Stivey will be joined by Sasha's aunt Natalie George when they take to the streets of London in April. For Michelle and Natalie it will be their second marathon, for Jenna it will be her first.

Writing on her JustGiving page Michelle says: "Sasha - our beautiful daughter, full of love, life and laughter. Diagnosed at 17, taken from us at 19. In those two years, our brave girl endured three major surgery resections, chemo-embolisation and 22 sessions of chemotherapy. But did she let it define her?

"Not a chance. Her courage, bravery and determination has been both humbling and inspiring. From the moment she stepped onto the 'cancer roller coaster', she held on and faced every turn and every dip with a strength I never would have thought possible. With every hi (sic) - she embraced life to the fullest.

"Her last week was spent at St Julia's Hospice in Hayle. We couldn't have asked for more expertise and care. Sasha was kept pain free and cherished as if she were their own daughter. Chris and I were able to move in with her, so she was never alone, day or night and we were looked after too. Friends and family were welcomed at all times.

"In beautiful, peaceful surroundings, Sasha was able to appreciate the quiet breeze in her hair, the birds and bees busy around the flowers and the gentle trickle of the waterfalls before turning to me and saying 'I'm ready now mum.' Without the hospice, it would have been so different.

"All I am doing is 26.2 miles. Nothing in comparison, but the money raised will make a difference to other families in Cornwall facing the worst time of their lives."

On her page, Jenna, says: "This past year has changed the lives of my family and I forever. Not only was she (Sasha) my cousin, she was my best friend, being only two months apart in age, we had always done everything together. The two years over which Sasha lived with and fought against cancer were turbulent and terrifying, and yet within those two years she retained an incredibly admirable spirit and a resilience that has

inspired so many; she refused to let her cancer rule her life.

"The decision for Sasha to be moved to a hospice was heart wrenchingly painful. It was associated with giving up, with an acceptance. The move to St Julia’s was, however, such an important and significant one.

St Julia’s was our small haven in such a tragic and agonising time.

For this reason, Cornwall Hospice care has become a charity extremely close to my heart. I feel as if it gave our family so much at a time when we needed it most, and for this I will feel forever indebted."

To sponsor Michelle's marathon efforts go to www.justgiving.com/Michelle-Bray2, or to support Jenna visit www.justgiving.com/Jenna-Stivey/.