The 6th of January 2024 will mark 10 years since the worst possible day of our lives. Our role model and best friend, became suddenly, and critically ill over the Christmas period. By the time it reached early January, it was clear just how serious this illness was. On the 6th of January 2014 aged just 53, our loving Dad passed away with heart failure.

The hole that this left, in not only our hearts, but our lives, was profound. I was 16 at the time when I delivered the news to my younger brother Elliot (aged 11 at the time) and I truly believe that his passing, especially at such a young age, changed the course of our lives. With precious childhood memories to hold dear, and an everlasting desire to make him proud. We have both carried him with us through every major life event since his passing, These include such milestones as; Major Birthdays, passing of exams, getting into university, passing our driving test and of course... going for that first pint at 18!

Whilst we acknowledge just how extremely fortunate we were, to have a strong network of family and friends who supported us during this time. There are a variety of reasons why other children, parents and families may need that additional bit of professional support during such a life changing event. 

That is why myself and my brother will be taking part in just under a year of fundraising including two major challenges in support of Child Bereavement UK.

15,000 ft Skydive - 18/06/23 (Fathers Day)

Myself and Elliot will both be completing a 15,000ft Tandem skydive in Lancaster. With neither of us particularly having a head for heights just signing up was a struggle but it's all for a good cause!

National 3 Peaks Challenge - 30/09 to 01/10

On the 30th of September myself and Elliot, joined by a close group of family and friends will be attempting the National 3 peaks challenge (Hopefully within 24 hours). 

We will be taking on the three highest peaks in England, Scotland and Wales. This is considered one of the toughest outdoor challenges in Britain ascending Ben Nevis (1,344m), Scafell Pike (978m) and Snowdon (1,085m) which is roughly a 26 mile trek. We have set the target to complete all three within the same 24 hours, which even excluding external factors will be incredibly difficult, so wish us luck!!

https://www.justgiving.com/team/TeamWilkes

Both challenges are in loving memory of our Dad.

About the charity:

Child Bereavement UK helps families to rebuild their lives when a child grieves or when a child dies. They support children and young people (Up to the age of 25) when someone important to them has died or is not expected to live. They also support parents and the wider family when a baby or child of any age dies, or is terminal.

Child Bereavement UK provide training to professionals in health and social care, education, the emergency services and the voluntary and corporate sectors, equipping them to provide the best possible care to bereaved families.