Hazel might have left us recently, but the memories and her character still live on!

As someone who was born with Spina Bifida, she lived the best life she could and inspired so many around her. She drove, she worked all her adult life and she moved from Sheffield, to London, to France! She had an awesome giggle and dealt with all that life threw at her with an enviable grace. She fought cancer with this same determination.

Hazel's character has inspired us to raise funds to create a place that can nurture those who are disabled and can continue to convey Hazel's story so they too can be inspired and understand what can be truly achieved.

Through a close relationship with ChallengeAid, we have learnt that sadly many parts of Africa see disability very differently and children and adults alike are not welcomed into normal society. This stigma means that there is almost zero support for families, however, ChallengeAid have identified a single room that is currently being used to support a very small number of families and it is our dream to raise money to turn this room into a fully funded School of Hope.

This will be the first disabled School of Hope and will proudly be named the 'Hazel Walton School of Hope'. In this school these children and families will learn of Hazel's story and what can be achieved; we hope in time; it will also help educate the wider society.

As with all things ChallengeAid,100% of donations go towards the cause and longevity of the school is as a result of it being run by locals for locals. This is simply an incredible opportunity to ensure Hazel's smile and grace is seen and felt by others.

In order to help support this fundraising, a large team of ladies that are Hazel's dear family and friends will be taking part in the “Colour Obstacle Rush” on 8th June. We chose this event as we know it would have made Hazel laugh and we will be wearing her favourite colours on the day. Whilst there are a few fitties amongst us, we can assure you there are a few that will find this a bit tricky, so the photos will be sure to amuse!

We hope Hazel's story has inspired you to donate and make this School of Hope a reality. Hazel's family feel it would really please her to see that her memory lives on in this way.
Thank you from all of us. xx