Thanks for taking the time to visit our JustGiving page. As you may know, Mum was diagnosed with brain cancer in January 2016, and was cared for by the Palliative Care Unit at the Northern General Hospital. This is a fantastic unit, which aims to improve the quality of life for people with life-limiting conditions, by addressing their physical, emotional, spiritual and social needs, and by paying attention to the needs of those close to them.

Although this is an NHS unit, the Sheffield Hospitals Charity fundraises to provide specialised care, therapies and 'added extras' for the patients and their families who use the Unit - these improve the experience of the patients and help them make the most of every day.  At Mum's request, we are hoping to raise money for the Charity - which will use the funds to support the work that the Unit does.  After being admitted to the Unit, Mum very quickly remarked at how wonderful it was at giving her the restful and relaxing atmosphere required for her at this difficult stage of her life.

One example of the work paid for by the Charity is that patients receiving palliative care are given the opportunity to have a professional photograph taken and to reminisce with their family by recording their life history as a lasting memory for them to keep when they have gone. Mum recently took part in the oral history project and loved the experience.

Other extras that the Charity funds include free 24hour internet access for patients, daily newspapers, magazines and toiletries, drinks for visiting family and friends and helping patients celebrate personal celebrations.

To raise money, we are completing (hopefully!) the following mad challenges:

• London Marathon run in April (Claire); and
  
  
• 5km (half marathon swim) in Lake Windermere and Loch Lomand in June and August & 14km swim in the Thames in August (Helen).

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.