Joshua's Grandad (Terry) was a very special man, one who cared deeply for his family and who would do anything for them. He adored his grandchildren and they adored him. 

When Terry was diagnosed with skin Cancer in January 2020 he committed that he would fight it right to the bitter end and he would do so with dignity. Well, over the next 18 months he did just that, as the cancer spread he fought every inch of the way, not just because he liked a challenge but because he wanted his family to know that they were worth fighting for. 

During the final few weeks of Terry's life, when the inevitability of his passing became evident, he decided that rather than being hospital he wanted to be at home, with his family. His wish, to die with dignity, surrounded by those that loved him most would not have been possible without the support, dedication and kindness of the John Taylor Hospice and their wonderful staff. We as a family will be eternally grateful. 

Joshua misses his Grandad every day, we all deal with grief in different ways, Joshua's mechanism is to ‘do something’ and so he wanted a way to thank the wonderful nurses who cared for his Grandad. Joshua is our Duracell bunny, always on the go and naturally athletic, we told him if he was to ask for sponsorship then he needed to challenge himself. So, at 7 years old, he is going to attempt to complete the sprint triathlon designed for 15 year olds. He will swim 400m (in an outdoor pool), cycle 10 miles and run 3 miles. This may well prove as much of a challenge for his parents accompanying him as it will for him! 

If any of our local friends want to support him in person, let us know and we will keep you informed of the plan! 

John Taylor Hospice provides specialist palliative and end of life care for people in Birmingham and across the West Midlands. Both at the hospice in Erdington and in the local community, care is ‘Taylor-made’ to the individual ensuring people receive support how, where and when they need it. Today more than 600 people and their families will receive the care they need from John Taylor teams. John Taylor Hospice’s staff and volunteers are totally dedicated to making every moment matter for everyone they care for.