A dying wish of an inspirational Maidstone mum is set to be realised, with the launch of a charity to help cancer patients.

Prolific campaigner Hayley Martin tragically succumbed to the disease in January, but had desperately wanted to help others with their own fights.

Despite her terminal diagnosis in 2011, the 31-year-old of Loose Road, dedicated her time to raising thousands of pounds for the Charles Dickens ward at Maidstone Hospital. She even had a room named after her there, where she ran a support group for cancer patients alongside receiving treatment herself.

Later this month, Hayley’s Heroes will be launched with a glitzy party at MuMu in Week Street, with her family as trustees.

Keli Tomlin, Charles Dickens ward manager and the clinical lead for the charity, said: “It is all about making magical memories for people.

“I think it is very important to have something to look forward to when undergoing cancer treatment. A lot of the patients are receiving palliative care so to have something to focus on is really positive psychologically and can be a real boost. And it is not just the patients themselves but their families and friends who may be really struggling.”

So far, two people have had experiences paid for by the fund and around eight have been referred. Requests have included things like a pamper day, trip to a West End show and afternoon tea.

The fund will be open to all Kent Oncology Centre patients, and could also be used for a treat for family member or carer.

Mrs Tomlin will be helping Hayley’s Heroes get off the ground by running the London Marathon in aid of it.

She said: “It is going to be very emotional for me because all along Hayley said she would come along. Seeing the charity launched was something she desperately wanted but she got so poorly so quickly.

“A lot of the marathon is a mental battle, and Hayley will be my inspiration for running once I hit the wall. The thought of all my patients will help me.”

To support Hayley’s Heroes, contact Keli on keli.tomlin@nhs.net or 07703 972529 or donate via tinyurl.com/hayleysheroes