Hello, I’m Sarah, and I’d love to share the story behind an amazing local charity – and why my husband Richard and I are taking on the challenge of a lifetime in 2026 to support them.

You may have heard of Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice – known to many as Russell House. But you might not know how it all began...

In 1994, my Auntie Linda gave birth to twin boys, Tom and Russell. Russell was born with hydrocephalus (water on the brain), and he spent much of his early life in and out of hospital. Despite a difficult prognosis, Russell has defied the odds and now lives in assisted accommodation, though he cannot care for himself, or read or write. Sadly, Linda passed away a few years ago, but her determination and passion live on.

During those early years, Linda often visited Martin House Hospice for respite care and quickly realised there was no local provision for families like hers in Kirklees. And so, Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice was born – all thanks to Linda’s vision and tireless fundraising efforts.

As a family, we supported her every step of the way – attending local galas, running tombolas, taking on challenges, and selling Linda’s legendary Christmas cakes (her kitchen at Christmas was a sight to behold!).

Fast forward 30 years, and Linda’s dream has become a reality: Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice now supports hundreds of local families, providing nursing care, hydrotherapy, creative therapy, days out, memory making, end-of-life care, counselling, and bereavement support.

Now it’s our turn to give back.

In June 2026, we walked the Inca Trail in Peru to Machu Picchu to raise vital funds for the Hospice. Our target is £6000 – and we need your help to get there.

Every penny raised goes towards vital care for families and without your support the hospice can not continue.