A widower from Lancashire is honouring his late wife's memory in a uniquely vibrant way: by hosting a series of sell-out memorial raves that raise vital funds for a cancer charity.
A Promise to Dance: From Grief to Celebration
Mark Rackham was left bereft when his wife, Sarah Rackham, passed away in June 2024 at the age of 46 after a seven-year battle with breast cancer. Sarah, a teacher from Morecambe, was diagnosed with incurable oestrogen-receptive breast cancer at 39 and became a prominent campaigner, even setting up the Fighting to be Heard charity to raise awareness.
Before her death, Sarah and Mark planned the first event together. "It's what she would have wanted," Mark smiles, recalling his promise to continue the parties in her honour. "She was dancing to the end." Sarah's inspiring social media presence culminated in a final post viewed an astonishing 1.8 billion times on X, where she told followers not to cry for her, stating she had lived life on her own terms.
The Listen Up Legacy: Music for a Cause
True to his word, Mark now organises the 'Listen Up' club night at Area in Manchester, a 500-capacity event that traditionally sells out. The night honours Sarah and all others lost to breast cancer, featuring DJ sets from notable names like Craig Charles, Dave Haslam, and Clint Boon.
"Everyone involved knew Sarah, and they have all donated their time," Mark explained. This ensures that 100% of the ticket revenue goes directly to the Fighting to be Heard charity. The charity provides crucial hardship grants to cancer patients and their families, many of whom face financial strain after being forced to give up work.
Sarah's legacy also lives on through her two daughters, Nancy, 12, and Ruby, 14. Mark has focused on staying busy for his own mental health and his girls' welfare, which led to another notable moment when his Urmston pub, the Barking Dog, made national news for unmasking a pub quiz cheating ring using Apple Watches.
A Seven-Year Battle with Breast Cancer
Sarah's journey began in 2016 with a diagnosis of stage 3 oestrogen-receptive invasive ductal carcinoma. She underwent surgery to remove a 6.5cm tumour, followed by a mastectomy, lymph node removal, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy after tests showed the cancer had spread.
She spoke openly about the gruelling nature of treatment and the emotional impact of side effects like hair loss. Sadly, the cancer later recurred in her bones and liver. Throughout her illness, she used her platform to connect with and support others, leaving behind a powerful message of resilience and a unique, dancing memorial that continues her fight.
