Today’s care is being funded by family and friends of Susan Eckersley in her memory

Today we are privileged that our care is being funded by Kate Holderness in honour of her mum, Susan Eckersley.

Today marks Susan’s birthday and Kate, her family and friends have raised enough funds to cover our care for this special day in memory of her beloved mum.

Money has been raised from a number of fundraising activities such as a coffee morning, a sponsored trek up Scafell Pike, an auction, Zoom Bongo Bingo, a gin night and more.

Kate explains: “In September 2018 I set myself a goal to honour the memory of my mum by raising her birth date in monetary value for the amazing hospice which cared for her, and supported us in her final days. This was kicked off by my best mate Emma Conway with a coffee morning.

“To follow, my lovely husband celebrated his 50th birthday with our lovely family and friends asking for no gifts, just donations. My PT Keith Lockley got our group from KO Fitness together and we conquered Scafell Pike. All the while various JustGiving pages were set up in Mum’s memory with people constantly donating!

“I also asked for donations for my birthday, and there was a gin night which hit the spot not only in fundraising but partying too, with profits on Tropic sales from Linda on the night. A big auction event with my fitness buddies from KO fFtness hosted by Keith and Orla was also fantastic, with donations from Serenity Room for treatments, and my friend Michelle completed a sponsored walk.

“We also asked for donations from Grandma Conway’s family on her passing; Carol held an online raffle to sell two concert tickets; and we are signed up to walk the Himalayas in October. I am also planning to skydive with my two lads Shay and Danny which is scheduled now for September; and there will be a huge ladies’ event which I promise will take place if it’s the last thing I do!”

She adds: “The target seemed so far away and because of circumstances we thought it wouldn’t be achievable this year for her birthday. But because of some amazing people and dedicated friends and family, we’ve done it!

“Thank you to every single person who joined in, donated, sponsored, given raffle prizes, attended functions and dug deep.

“Susan Eckersley is Queen for the day on 19th May 2020! And St Catherine’s Hospice has got money to keep the most needed sanctuary for patients and families in their end of life journey.

“We’re not stopping here though because the hospice is set to lose roughly £1.5 million in the current crisis. It’s the least I can do to repay them for what they did for my beautiful Muma and her family.

“JustGiving pages are still open and more events are in the pipeline, and of course we’re always looking for people to join us on our mad missions to make money for this amazing place.

“A big hug to you all from me, my dad and our gang!”

Hayley James, community engagement officer at St Catherine’s Hospice, says: “Kate was determined not to let the lockdown stop her raising such an incredible amount for our charity, and we’re delighted and so grateful that she has pulled out all the stops with her family and friends to donate an amazing £20,121.13.

“Everyone came together to think of lots of exciting and meaningful ways to raise money in Susan’s memory, and we are so honoured that they have chosen to support our specialist care for people affected by life-shortening illnesses on this special day. The wonderful donation will enable us to care for people at the hospice and in their own homes, as well as provide support to families, loved ones, and people who are bereaved in our communities.

“I’d like to say a very heartfelt ‘thank you’ to Kate and everyone who supported her fantastic efforts, for being here for St Catherine’s in this poignant way; especially during such challenging times.”

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