Family takes on epic adrenaline challenges in memory of Steve

A Leyland family braved two adrenaline challenges organised by St Catherine’s Hospice – an 11,000-foot skydive and a 120ft abseil – in memory of a much-loved husband.

Denise Brotherton and her family signed up for both of the charity’s daring feats to raise funds for the Lostock Hall hospice, in honour of her beloved husband Stephen.

She said: “When Steve was in the hospice I noticed an advert for the abseil. I suggested to my brother and sister about raising money for St Catherine’s and Steve was over the moon that we were going to do it – he wanted to come and watch us.”

Stephen came to the hospice in October 2016, following a diagnosis of cancer and sadly died soon after.

The abseil was originally scheduled for last autumn but had to be rearranged for spring.

“We really wanted to go ahead and raise money for the hospice,” Denise added. “Everyone caring for Steve in the hospice was amazing – it was the least we could do.

“It was then that Emma, one of the St Catherine’s fundraisers, suggested the skydive which was taking place in winter, and I jumped at the chance!”

Denise was joined by her sister Alison Burns, brother Andy Rigby, cousin Beverley Foy and family friend Shaun Davis for the thrilling freefall at Lancaster’s Black Knights Parachute Centre in November.

Denise, Alison and Liam then went on to complete the rescheduled abseil down St John’s Church in Whittle-le-Woods in March. 

She said: “Steve’s funeral was the day after the skydive and we all felt on top of the world. All of us enjoyed the thrill and excitement of it. We were so happy to raise money for the hospice, but most importantly we did it for Steve.”

Emma Jacovelli, St Catherine’s donor development officer, said: “We’re so impressed with the brave efforts of Denise and her family – taking on not just one, but two, thrilling challenges for St Catherine’s. We’re so grateful to them for raising an incredible £4,960, which was match-funded by Morrison’s Foundation by £490 as Denise’s sister, Alison, works at Morrison’s.

“It’s an amazing achievement and their support means that we’re able to continue providing specialised care to people facing life-shortening conditions such as motor neurone disease, cancer, heart failure and MS, helping them to avoid spending any unnecessary time in hospital, and have comfort and dignity surrounded by those they love.”

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