In March 2023 the IGNIFI team said goodbye to our friend and treasured colleague of 13 years, Claire Hodgson. Claire not only was a very talented member of our team but her kind, determined personality and infectious sense of humour was what made a lasting impression on anyone who met her.

From running the Great North Run, taking part in Tough Mudders, organising cake sales, charity walks and challenges it was Claire who was always at the forefront of all fundraising activity at IGNIFI. Even whilst going through a 15-month battle with chemo and radiotherapy and then waiting on her stem cell transplant at the start of 2023, Claire selflessly was raising funds for the Anthony Nolan charity throughout this time.

As a team, we wanted to carry on the incredible legacy Claire created at IGNIFI. We will be raising funds for Anthony Nolan, a charity very close to our hearts because of Claire.

Every day, Anthony Nolan saves the lives of people with blood cancer or a blood disorder. The charity does this by matching incredible individuals willing to donate their stem cells to people who desperately need a lifesaving transplant. They also carry out cutting-edge scientific research, fund specialist post-transplant nurses and support patients and their families through the transplant process and beyond.

Over the course of the next year, collectively as a team and also individually, we have some epic challenges planned to raise these funds.

These events include:

15th July 2023 - John's Swim

First up with an exhausting individual challenge is John Rolt our Planning Manager, who will be taking on the Aquasphere Chillswim Ullswater. This is an open water swim event where John will be one of 400 participants swimming the full 7.5-mile length of Ullswater in the Lake District.

17th September 2023 - IGNIFI team walk

The IGNIFI team will be coming together with our family and friends to complete a 9-mile walk from IGNIFI HQ at No 43 to Claire’s local pub in South Shields where we plan on raising a toast in memory of Claire.

15th October 2023 - Laura P's Cycle

Our Senior Medical Account Manager, Laura Powell will be cycling 38 miles around Sunderland through a mix of woodland, urban and rural trails as part of the Active Sunderland Big Bike Ride

21st April 2024- Laura's London Marathon

Laura Smith our Digital Engagement Manager, will be taking on the 2024 London Marathon. Laura is a keen runner and has completed many events up to half marathon distance. However, doubling the distance and running 26.2 miles in one go certainly will be a challenge.

15th May 2024 - Hodgy Bake Off

Our next team event. The team will be bringing in their best baking efforts for Bake Off day. Donating funds to try the masterpieces and the winner will be crowned Master Baker.