This Just Giving page is a tribute to my wonderful husband and the best Dad in the world, Simon Chipchase, or as most of you knew him, Chip.

Chip was taken from us too soon at the young age of 60 by a very rare type of stroke and we are hoping to raise money to support both the Eastbourne District General Hospital Critical Care Unit and also a donation to the place that Chip enjoyed most, CrossFit in Uckfield.

The care given to Chip in his last few days was incredible. The nurses and doctors treated him with respect and dignity and they extended that care to myself and Jed and all the family and friends that visited Chip in those last few days. The only problem at the unit was the lack of any decent chairs to be able to then sleep next to Chip through the night. The furniture they had was old and broken and not at all comfortable. We would like to ensure that other families that need to stay with their loved ones are also able to sleep by their side and be comfortable. We are looking to donate some funds to the unit and co-ordinate with them the purchase of some practical furniture that can be easily stored and yet give comfort when needed.

Chip LOVED the gym - it was his happy place. He would be fed up and miserable if he did not go regularly and he loved the community and friendships he made at the CrossFit. Over the past few years we had been through a lot as a family and those that know us and knew Chip well would understand his passion to keep himself fit. He found his classes at the gym challenging and we know he also used the time to talk and let off steam. Chip would love Jed and I to support Krish and her wonderful group at CrossFit and he spoke so highly of them all, although he did sometimes moan about doing the squats! Krish has kindly informed us that in memory of Chip the gym are going to be starting a 'Chip's Ruck Club' from Saturday 17th January. This will be held once a month and will be open to non-members also. The idea will be for men to walk and talk, whilst keeping fit and they will need weighted vests and heavy back packs to help the walkers benefit both physically and mentally. Krish has told us that since Chip passed many of the gym members have found it hard to talk about it and this highlights the need for supporting men's mental health. Mental health was something that was very close to Chips heart and he would be so proud to have something started in his memory and name.

We do not need flowers for Chip's funeral - we can provide those. We need support and donations to help those that Chip would also want to help - he was the strongest and kindest man that ever lived. Due to his fitness and the good care he took of himself, he donated his liver and both kidneys to hopefully go on and save others and we want to honour that.

Thank you for your support

Jo & Jed

(& Coco)

xxx