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Emily, Tessa, Sarah and Chloe are planning to undertake a massive 3 day physical challenge in memory of our dear Dad, Alan Gent who we lost to MND in January this year. From Friday 2nd October (the day after what would have been our Dad's 78th birthday), we plan to walk a ‘Thumbs Up’ for St Mary’s Hospice in Ulverston, in a route that will take us across the Lake District hills, re-creating an actual THUMBS UP on the fells - the symbolic gesture in the very path we take that summed up Dad’s amazingly positive approach to his devastating illness, sending a massive thanks to the hospice and embracing too Dad’s love of the Lakes.

Alan Gent was born in 1937 and died aged 77 so we’re walking 37 miles, swimming in 7 lakes and taking in 7 summits across 3 days.  We’re aiming to raise a target £1937… As Alan was a much-loved maths teacher with a passion for sharing his love of the fells, this challenge and it’s numerical connections is exactly the sort of which he would approve.  

Dad suffered a rare strain of Motor Neuron’s Disease known as Progressive Bulmar Palsy which over a period of 14 months, robbed him of his voice, his ability to swallow and eventually to breathe. Throughout this time, Dad showed great fortitude and strength, continuing to share happy times with our large family and many friends.  He became associated with the ‘thumbs up’ sign that he used as short hand for expressing a common message.  Infamous amongst those who knew him was his ice bucket challenge in return in which he is giving a big thumbs up just 5 months before he died.

However, his last few months were incredibly challenging and he really appreciated the support of the staff and volunteers of St Mary’s Hospice in Ulverston and wanted to leave a legacy. The care of St Mary’s Hospice gave Dad some of the most peaceful times possible with his condition and being there helped him figure out how to spend his final days.  We wish to thank the Hospice whilst raising much needed funds to support them in their vital work of helping people coping with serious and terminal illness, and supporting families through some of the hardest times of their lives.

And we’re hoping you can support us either with a pledge of cash please. It means a huge amount and all support is hugely appreciated.  

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