I want to raise money for St Helena Hospice for the amazing care they showed towards Mum (Mary Crawley). I did not just lose my Mum on the 27 June 2023, I lost so much more, she was my friend, biggest cheerleader, confidant, amazing Nana to Theo, my kick up the bum when needed (even if I did not know at the time or ask for it!). I owe so much to her and the sadness has been overwhelming at times. It makes my soul hurt with pain, but it hurts so much as she was so fabulous. How lucky was I to have her as my Mum and many of you in knowing her.

St Helena's Hospice is the most incredible place. I was nervous the first time I visited but this was immediately overcome. It was a place filled with joy, laughter and love. To say all staff and volunteers go above and beyond does not do them justice. During Mum's stay she enjoyed alternative remedies such as aromatherapy and some very alternative visitors including baby goats, a show horse, bird of prey and many dogs. All brought a smile to her face. On sunny days mum was wheeled into the garden for her to feel the sun on her face. There were many days she did not want to eat but with some encouragement and the kindness of staff she could always be persuaded, who can say no to banana angel delight.

The kindness and dignity in the way they cared for Mum right until the end was inspiring and humbling. They ensured her dignity throughout. The support and kindness showed to Mum, our family and friends will never be forgotten so I need to do something to say thank you. What says thank you more than throwing yourself out of an aeroplane 2 miles high?

Birkett Long were incredibly supportive to me through Mum's journey and I am honoured that I am not doing this alone but the whole team is doing it too. Most teams go to an Escape Room for team bonding but not us!

Here is some more information about the team taking part.