This site is a tribute to James Ralston, who was born in Strasbourg on November 11, 1995. He is much loved and will always be remembered.

James was a vibrant and outgoing 20 year old with a passion for fashion, fast cars, good food, conversation and the South of France when he was diagnosed with Ewing's Sarcoma in 2016.

During the next 2 years James endured a total of 12 cycles of chemotherapy each lasting 3 days. Despite making him violently sick, he got on with life and enjoyed time with family and friends. Halfway through the chemotherapy, he had an above the knee amputation in a bid to stop the spread of the cancer. Despite this cruel blow, James was soon up and about on his prosthetic leg tackling stairs and walking with confidence and determination.

In his all too brief period of remission in Summer 2017, James enjoyed a trip to Turkey and spent 7 glorious weeks in the South of France where he ate, drank, car, yacht and people watched with great enthusiasm, looking and feeling healthier than he had done for a long time.

Sadly this period of remission was short lived and the return of the disease resulted in a broken neck, Ewing's Sarcoma weakens bones. James, being James, dealt with this in his own unique and hugely positive way, returning home the day after surgery.

However, unfortunately, the cancer had taken a final hold and, after a crazy few weeks of clay pigeon shooting, going to UFC, watching Reading FC, along with laughs with his brothers and many a joyful family meal, he sadly lost his battle and passed away in April 2018.

James faced these various challenges with incredible bravery, courage and an unending sense of humour. He is truly an inspiration to us all.

James was fortunate to spend his last few months at The Duchess of Kent Hospice in Reading where he was cared for by an amazing team of people who genuinely cared about him. Their ability to manage his symptoms enabled James to do so much more than would have been possible had he been at home or in a hospital. Nothing was too much trouble and, as a family, we felt cherished and safe at a time when our world was crumbling around us. 

For this reason we want to raise money to support the The Duchess of Kent Hospice so that other patients, and their families, can benefit from the excellent care and compassion that James and ourselves received. So please, no amount is too small and would mean so much to us.  

Thank you x