THE Workington community is rallying round for a mother who is raising money to pay for her wedding and her funeral.

Susan Rumney, 26, of Northside, was diagnosed with an incurable cervical cancer two weeks ago. Faced with the news she won’t survive, Susan wanted to fulfil her dream of marrying partner Jay Clark as well as making sure the family have enough money to pay for her funeral when she eventually loses her battle with the disease.

But the Workington community went a step further and started a toy appeal to buy presents for her three children and her stepson as well as making sure work on her house is finished.

Susan is mother to Grayson, one, Lexie, three, and Mackenzie, eight, and her partner also has a son, Leo, 10.

Her sister Lisa, 24, said: “It’s really overwhelming. I can’t believe how people are willing to go out of their way to help us.”

Susan and Jay will get married on November 24 at St Kentigern’s Church in Aspatria.

The appeal has already raised over £5,000 in less than a week and the couple have had offers from people willing to make the cake, prepare the buffet, take the pictures and provide flowers and entertainment.

Fundraising events are taking place all over the town to raise more cash for the couple and to make the family’s Christmas one to remember.

Lisa said: “This has given her hope. She’s already tried on a wedding dress and she has another one to try.”

Susan started chemotherapy this week to buy her some time with her children. She was expecting to be sent home yesterday, however her house is not ready, with carpets still needing to be fitted.

Lisa said: “Last week we found someone to come and do the plaster, someone else donated all the paint and her hospital bed arrived, which was my priority, but she still hasn’t got any carpets. But she’s happy she’ll be back with her children.”

The family are appealing for people to donate the carpet so that Susan can be comfortable in her home.

Lisa added Susan was feeling fine following the first chemo but doctors had warned her may feel worse soon.

She added: “I don’t think she’s quite ready for what’s about to happen.”

To support Susan and her family visit tinyurl.com/y7hgrjzj