"Cohort 2009 was always a special cohort from the start. They were passionate, questioning, challenging and irritatingly noisy at times - fab student nurses though. Katie was always a 'big', although tiny in stature, part of the group. She contributed to all aspects of the course and whenever she did, she was unfailingly positive and incredibly caring, her smile itself was therapeutic. Katie graduated in December and would have been an asset to the nursing profession." - Julie Crane, Head of Directorate of Nursing, University of Liverpool.

 

On January 29th 2013, our beautiful friend Katie Louise Daintith passed away in her sleep. Following her diagnosis of bowel cancer in November 2011, Katie spent the following 14 months refusing to conform to the doctors prognosis of the progressing disease, and instead continued to inspire those around her with her positive attitude and motivational blog. Throughout her battle Katie continued to be a wonderful Mum to Kimberley, became a beautiful bride to Peter in May 2012, and graduated with her Nursing Cohort In December 2012. Arguably her greatest achievement was the effect Katie had on those around her; to make them smile, to remember what was important in life, but most of all, to LIVE.     

Over the past year, and the following couple of months, between the UK and Australia, Nursing Cohort 2009 are uniting through different challenges for one cause - Willowbrook Hospice. Willowbrook Hospice aims to improve the lives of people who have life-limiting or terminal illness, caring for over 6000 patients since opening in 1997. From August 2012 Katie spent the majority of her time in Willowbrook – a place of comfort, free from pain, and surrounded by family and friends. Although Willowbrook is partially funded by the NHS, it relies mainly on generous donations from the public and fundraising events. As a Cohort, we hope our determination to endure these challenges and take on fundraising events, combined with your sponsorship and support, will ensure Willowbrook Hospice can continue to deliver the excellent care and support to palliative patients, like Katie, and their families in the future. 

 

A triathlon, half marathon, 10k moonlight walk and Tough Mudder.

One cohort. One cause. One girl. One hospice.

Katie Louise Daintith this is for you.