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24-mile walk in memory of a loved one

Posted on by Becky Sidwell

A soggy end failed to dampen spirits on a special family day out climbing the Yorkshire Three Peaks.

Claire Crimes and family members took on the 24-mile walk in memory of her mother-in-law Iris, from Macclesfield.

 Iris Crimes was cared for by East Cheshire Hospice.

The group have raised more than £2,300 for East Cheshire Hospice where Iris was looked after last November.

The total was match funded by AstraZeneca where Claire works, as the Hospice is one of their chosen charities.

Claire said: “The weather was perfect for most of the day, but the heavens opened as we descended the last mountain.

From left, Craig Bracegirdle, Claire Crimes, Wayne Smith, Ben Crimes, Nat Hall and Ellie Crimes.

“It was a bit dodgy getting down with a small stream running down the rocks, so I ended up sliding down on my bottom. I finished the walk with muddy knickers and squelchy boots!”

Son Ben, daughter Ellie and her boyfriend Nat Hall, along with two of Iris’ other grandsons Wayne Smith and Craig Bracegirdle, also undertook the challenge.

Claire said: “We all wore yellow Hospice t-shirts which was fabulous as we could see each other clearly as we broke apart walking up the mountains.

“We stayed together as a group even though the younger ones would have completed it in a faster time, and they waited for me at the top of each peak.”

“We all looked after each other and completed the walk within the 12-hour time limit which was marvellous.

“We wanted to give something back for the way the Hospice cared for Iris. They were so lovely with her and all the family and it was our way of saying thank you.

“They’re all angels at the Hospice and made everything as comfortable as possible. We wanted to do something in Iris’ memory.”

A week later Ben also undertook a tandem sky dive to raise funds.

Daring Ben Crimes parachuted from 15,000 feet.  

Claire said: “It was his first parachute jump and he was the only one in his group who jumped from 15,000 feet.

“He said if he’s going to do it he may as well do it full-on from three miles up. He said it was amazing and if ever anyone had thought about doing it – do it!”

“We’d like to thank family and friends for the very kind donations and also the people we met along the way who also donated.”

To donate to their fundraising visit www.shorturl.at/tBRS6

Louise Troyano is cooking up something special.

Posted on by Becky Sidwell

Her late husband starred in The Great British Bake Off – now Louise Troyano is cooking up something special.

The art worker is going on a trek in Iceland organised by East Cheshire Hospice.

The three-day trip in November 2024 coincides with what would have been the couple’s 19th wedding anniversary.

Luis and Louise on their wedding day in 2005.

Louise said: “I’m doing something that creates a new memory of that day. I always try to do something new on the days you’re supposed to be sad on.”

She has happy memories of how husband Luis was treated at the Hospice where he spent several weeks in the autumn of 2020.

The graphic designer died of oesophageal cancer aged 49, five years after he finished runner-up in the hit BBC show presented by Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins.

Luis on The Great British Bake Off.

Judges Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood were dazzled by Luis’ delicious chocolate mousse and tropical Manchester tart.

Louise said: “Luis was excited to be on a show he watched religiously. He was the star baker for bread week and was good at making bread. To be fair, he was good at everything.

“He did all the cooking at home and made birthday cakes for everyone. Since he died, I’ve had to learn to cook for myself.

“He left me a note and one of the things he told me was to travel. We went on lots of holidays and Iceland is on my bucket list.

The Troyanos on holiday.

“When the Hospice trip popped up, I thought it’s ticking that box and helping the Hospice.”

“Luis died in October 2020 during Covid when we had to wear masks so it was weird. The Hospice staff were lovely, but I can’t remember all the names of the nurses now.

“It’s really sad and I feel bad because I probably wouldn’t be able to recognise them because they needed to be in masks.

“The staff were great. All of them. They were really nice and I knew the late chaplain Margaret, who was wonderful.”

Luis and Louise on their travels.

Louise is preparing for her Iceland adventure by carrying a rucksack full of recipe books.

She said: “I love walking and will need to carry water so am getting used to the weight.”

She works at the advertising agency McCann Manchester and in the admissions hut at Lyme Park entrance.

Louise and McCann colleagues are organising a bake off in Luis’ memory raising funds for the Hospice.

* To sponsor her visit justgiving.com/fundraising/louise-troyano

Do you fancy visiting the edge of the Arctic circle?

Posted on by Becky Sidwell

Do you fancy visiting the edge of the Arctic circle?

East Cheshire Hospice still has a few places left on its Iceland adventure between November 13-18 next year.

The three-day trek is graded moderate to challenging with walkers covering an average of 12 kilometres a day over varying terrain.

The journey ends with a chance to explore Reykjavik, the world’s most northern capital.

The hike visits active volcanoes and lava fields, bubbling mud pools and hot springs.

The natural wonders of Iceland.

Walkers will also travel along the fault lines between Europe and America, with a chance of seeing the Northern Lights.

Three open evenings at the Hospice on Tuesdays Sept 12 and 19 and Monday, Sept 25 (all at 7 pm) will be a chance to learn more details.

People can attend one of the sessions without booking or email events@echospice.org.uk for more information.

Hospice Community and Events Assistant Nik Kalka said: “Iceland is known as the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’ because of its breathtaking natural landscapes.

Fundraiser Nik Kalka.

“It’s the trip of a lifetime and at the same time it’s a great way for walkers to support the Hospice.”

The entry deadline is November. A full breakdown of costs and fundraising, as well as testimonials from previous trek participants, will be given at the open evenings.

To find out more about the Iceland trip visit eastcheshirehospice.org.uk/trekiceland or contact the fundraising team on 01625 433477.

Kate Parker’s Hospice fundraising

Posted on by Becky Sidwell

Running has been the best medicine for Dr Kate Parker after losing her husband John four years ago.

Pounding the streets has seen Kate raise more than £8,000 for East Cheshire Hospice where he spent his final days.

John, an apprentice jeweller, died from bowel cancer aged 41, two years after diagnosis.

Kate, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, said: “I find running has really helped with my grief which is probably why I’ve chosen to do that as a fundraiser.

Dr Kate Parker and late husband John.  

“John and I would run together. He was taller and faster than me, so I couldn’t always keep up with him.

“While he was ill, I found it helped deal with such a difficult diagnosis and managing to look after him.

“The last few months of his life were tough so it helped me cope. Sometimes I’d run along the street crying my eyes out, but I didn’t really care and found it therapeutic.”

John received support from the charity’s Hospice @Home team before he was admitted as an inpatient.

Kate, a Macclesfield resident since 2016, said: “The Hospice were extremely helpful managing his pain during his final days. I don’t think I’d have managed at home.

Kate with daughter Willow after a fundraising run.

“We decided it was probably better he didn’t die at home to avoid leaving memories that would have been difficult to manage for our children.”

Daughters Jess and Hannah were in their early teens when their father died, while sister Willow was 16 months old at the time. She is now five.

Kate said: “I was midway through pregnancy when John was diagnosed. Having a baby while he was undergoing cancer treatment was quite a unique experience though a good distraction for both of us.

“For John and myself to bring up Willow together, even while he was ill, was incredibly special for us.”

Kate has undertaken the last three Manchester 10k runs, the last two with partner Max, a fellow fundraiser. John’s running friends from Poynton were also an inspiration.

Running for charity … Kate and partner Max.

She said: “It’s a no-brainer really. I’m aware the Hospice isn’t funded by the NHS and relies mostly on public money for funding.

“I’m always a bit bemused by that and can’t believe that it’s not properly funded.

“I felt it was more important to fundraise for the Hospice because I can’t imagine how it would have been in those last few days if we had not been able to go there.”

Hospice IPU Sister completes Skydive

Posted on by Becky Sidwell

Sky diver Pippa Williams hopes other nurses aim high like her by joining East Cheshire Hospice.

Macclesfield-born Pippa raised almost £900 when she leapt out of a plane over Shropshire in a tandem parachute jump.

Pippa about to take the plunge.

Pippa is ward sister at the charity which is on the lookout for qualified nurses and health care assistants/support workers.

Daredevil antics are optional, but Pippa’s plunge with 23 other Hospice staff and supporters who raised £14,000 shows the family atmosphere there.

“It’s a privilege and an honour to work at the Hospice. It’s a warm, friendly, calm environment and we can give time to patients in their final days or weeks and support their families.

A leap into the unknown … Pippa on a mission to raise funds for the Hospice.

“We have vacancies at the moment and I would recommend joining a nursing team brilliantly supported across all areas, with phenomenal backing from the community.

“I did a sky dive for the first time as I wanted to give something back to a Hospice hopefully there for years to come for all of us if necessary.

“A parachute jump was on my bucket list. It was a glorious day and the only time I got nervous was when the door opened.”

Pippa after her sky dive.

Pippa has worked at the Hospice for nine years, the last six in her current role.

Husband Adam, son Marcus (7) and daughter Anya (2) saw the jump, along with mum Helen, who works at the Hospice, and mother-in-law Joy.

* To apply for a vacancy at the Hospice visit www.echospice.org.uk/our-current-vacancies

S&G Response take on charity challenge

Posted on by Becky Sidwell

Four cyclists riding through four countries in as many days covering a distance of 444 kilometres.

No wonder Nick Stone, Jonathan Spencer, Sean Harper and Tom Healey have been dubbed the fantastic four.

They are aiming to raise £10,000 for East Cheshire Hospice in memory of Tom’s uncle Brian who died of oesophageal cancer in 2009, aged 59.

Tom, from Sutton, said: “My uncle spent his last few days in the Hospice and my parents know friends who’ve been in there.

“Mum organised coffee mornings in aid of the charity, so as a group we decided to support them as they’re local and have such a big impact.”

The quartet start in Calais on July 1 before cycling to Bruges, Maastrict and Cologne.

The cyclists work for S&G Response, a Wilmslow-based outsourcing insurance company founded by Nick, from Adlington, who won a ‘Giving It Back to Charity’ award at a recent insurance industry event.

Cyclists (from left) Nick Stone, Tom Healey and Johnathan Spencer. 

Nick said: “It’s going to be physically and mentally draining, but will be well worth it, especially knowing Tom’s story and why we’re doing the ride.

“We’re all semi competent cyclists and it’s a pretty cool thing to do together.”

Father and son Chris and Bradley Gibson, and Glenn Taylor, who all work for S&G, make up the support team, while colleagues are also travelling across the Channel to cheer on the group.

Sean Harper who is undertaking his fifth long-distance ride.

Motor vehicle engineer Jonathan devised the route. He said: “One thing I’ve discovered is that Google maps doesn’t work in Germany. We’re using tried and tested cycle paths where possible and have chosen a scenic route.

“We’ve all still got the fire in our bellies from our last charity ride from London to Amsterdam in 2019 and it’s great that our company is very charity oriented.”

This will be Sean Harper’s fifth long-distance ride. He said: “I started cycling after a football injury in 2010 and didn’t fancy running.

“The furthest was Blackpool to Paris and they were all organised rides but this could be tougher.”

Office manager and Executive Assistant Erica Boland said: “Cycling 280 miles in four days will be an epic challenge after a train and ferry to Calais.

“It’s a charity close to our hearts with family and friends of several employees benefitting from Hospice support. Every penny donated will help us reach our ambitious fundraising target.”

* To donate visit justgiving.com/page/fantasticfourfundraising.

Second Pie and Pint event this September!

Posted on by Becky Sidwell

A tasty pie and a traditional pint – the perfect ingredients for a scenic stroll with East Cheshire Hospice.

The Hospice is holding its second Pie and Pint walk, sponsored by Holdcroft, on Saturday, September 16, from 10 am.

The 10k walk starts and ends at Macclesfield Rugby Union Football Club, visiting Over Alderley, Mottram St Andrew, Prestbury and Dale Brow.

Early bird tickets available until June 30 are £25 for adults and £15 for under 18s who must be accompanied by an adult, or have written permission. Tickets provide a non-alcoholic drink for those under age.

Walkers at the first Pie and Pint event.

Challenge Events Coordinator Bethan Wade said: “The event is back by popular demand after we ran it for the first time last year.

“Walkers are urged to wear suitable clothing and footwear such as walking boots and waterproofs and not trainers as the route is challenging.

“Well-behaved dogs are welcome although there are multiple stiles on the route which some dogs may struggle with. The route isn’t accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs.

Fundraiser Claire Gorton (left) and volunteer Catherine Atkinson.

“The entrance fee only covers the cost of the event, so we ask that everyone tries to raise at least £50 sponsorship or make a donation when booking.

“All entrants receive a custom pint glass, hi vis jacket and, of course, a pie and a pint at the end. There are three flavours – meat and potato, chicken balti and cheese and onion – plus vegan, gluten free options.”

* To enter visit eastcheshirehospice.org.uk/events/pie-and-pint/

Trek 2024 destination revealed

Posted on by Becky Sidwell

Supporters of East Cheshire Hospice are off on their travels again – this time to Iceland.

Places are being offered for a three-day trek to discover a country nicknamed the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’ in November 2024.

An informal open evening on Tuesday, June 6, from 7-8 pm will explain more about the trip to the Nordic island on the fringe of the Arctic circle.

Hospice Challenge Events Co-ordinator Bethan Wade said: “It’s the trip of a lifetime to some of the world’s most breathtaking natural landscapes.

Destination Iceland for East Cheshire Hospice supporters.

“Explore active volcanoes and lava fields, bubbling mud pools and hot springs, walk along two continental plates and perhaps even spot the Northern Lights.

“We’ll be hiking to Iceland’s youngest volcano Gelingaldir and neighbouring Fagradaslsfjall before exploring the ethereal peaks of Mount Hengill heritage site along the fault lines between Europe and America.

“The trek is graded moderate to challenging, with walkers covering long distances over varying terrain on consecutive days.”

A £350 registration fee is payable upon booking, with participants asked to fundraise at least £3,300 for the Hospice.

Support and fundraising ideas will be provided and a self-funded option is also available. The trip is from November 13 to 18.

The adventure is the latest undertaken by Hospice supporters, some of whom are undertaking the Camino Trail in Spain in October.

The Hospice has also been to the Sahara, Nepal and the Grand Canyon in the last few years.

Visit eastcheshirehospice.org.uk/events/trek-2023/ or email events@echospice.org.uk

Anytime Fitness take on Tough Mudder for East Cheshire Hospice

Posted on by Becky Sidwell

Gym enthusiasts at Anytime Fitness are toning muscles for their biggest workout yet.

Seven members of the Duke Street gym are tackling a Tough Mudder obstacle course at Heaton Park on Sunday, July 16.

Manager Chavez Johnson and trainer Jamie Ormesher will join them for the 10k challenge in aid of East Cheshire Hospice.

Chavez said: “Now we’ll see how fit we all are! It’s a daunting test, but worth it for such a wonderful cause.

“The Hospice is close to the hearts of so many of our 700 members.

“We’re aiming to raise £1,000. There’s a mix of ability, but we’re in it together as a team.

“The gym is thriving, especially during a cost of living crisis. We did have 900 members pre-Covid, but gyms suffered a big drop in numbers then and we’ve done well to recover.”

The team is Grace Henderson, Francesca O’Brien, Adam Cheadle, Yang Voon, Gavin Trevena, Andy Baker and Tom Bentham.

Tough Mudder challengers. Back row (from left), Adam Cheadle, Yang Voon, Grace Henderson, Francesca O’Brien, Tom Bentham and Gavin Trevena. Front,  Jamie Ormesher and Chavez Johnson.

Tom completed a canoe paddle across England last year with brother George in memory of their late father Mark, a Hospice patient.

Tom said: “It’s a pleasure to be part of this team while continuing to raise money for East Cheshire Hospice.

“It’s been lovely meeting more like-minded individuals who want to make a positive impact in the community, by rising to the Tough Mudder challenge!”

Tom is also doing a triathlon in Wales in September, assuming he gets a bike by then.

* To sponsor the Anytime Fitness team visit www.gofund.me/37d4b6da

Fliss, along with family, will attend Starlight Walk in memory of late Mum

Posted on by Becky Sidwell

They treated her like a queen! A daughter’s description of how East Cheshire Hospice looked after her late mum.

When Tanis Richards saw her daughter Fliss get married in Crete last August, there was no sign of the cancer that would take her life four months later, aged 68.

Fliss, along with sisters-in-law Amanda and Emma, are taking part in the Starlight Walk as a thank you to the Hospice.

The event will be at Capesthorne Hall on Thursday, April 27, at 6 pm, with the walk starting at 7 pm.

Fliss said: “She was an amazing mum and an amazing grandma. It all happened very quickly.

“Mum was fine at the wedding, got poorly in September and was told she had cancer the following month.

From left, Tanis Richards with daughter Fliss and daughters-in-law Emma and Amanda. 

“She died on December 1 and spent her last two and a half days at the Hospice. She wasn’t there long, but staff were wonderful with her and us. They treated her like a queen.

“The whole family were there at the end, telling stories and laughing and joking. Mum’s last day on earth was how she would have wanted and that was only possible thanks to the Hospice.

“We wouldn’t have been able to do it anywhere else. They made it feel like home and made a very awful situation bearable.

“We want to give something back so we’re doing the walk and we know how much it costs to run the Hospice.”

Dad Dennis, along with Fliss’ younger triplet brothers Gareth, Christopher and Anthony, will be there to wave them off at the walk.

So will daughter Bella who received a book from a nurse which she reads when feeling sad. Bella, one of six grandchildren, was also given a Grief Bear knitted by Hospice volunteers.

Fliss said: “It was the little touches which made things easier. As a family we’re lucky we’re very close and losing mum has made us make the most of life.”

* To sponsor the family visit www.justgiving.com/team/Teamrichardsgirls

The dusk-time woodland walk, sponsored by Ford dealers Sidney Jackson, is over a 2.5km loop. The last set off time is 8.30 pm, with the event closing at 10 pm.

Entry only covers the event cost, so organisers are asking walkers to raise at least £50 in sponsorship, or make a £50 donation to the Hospice when registering.

To register visit the Hospice website.

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