Story
What an incredible woman Katie was. She achieved far more in her short life, than many who live on in to old age. She changed people’s lives – through her warm and loyal friendship, and also in her work.
We knew Katie’s wit, kindness and wisdom, her incredible brain, her calm approach to life’s challenges , her wicked sense of humour and wonderful laugh.
She qualified, as an immigration lawyer in 2009. She thoroughly enjoyed this work and was an excellent lawyer. Her intellect was suited to the challenge of law, and she cared deeply about her clients. Taking the time to get to know them and often working many hours to try and secure the best outcomes she could for them.
In January 2013, Katie began working at the Central England Law Centre and in 2016 she helped to set up Kids in Need of Defence UK, working with law firms to provide pro-bono advice to young people in the UK. By 2022 Kids In Need of Defence had helped 1,800 young people.
As one of her colleagues said “There are thousands of children and young people whose lives have changed for the better because of her work with KIND UK. So, she leaves quite a legacy..."
Katie cared. She cared for those who had no voice, she cared for those who made it possible for them to have a voice, she cared for her family, her friends and her colleagues. Her commitment and determination, and her ability to care changed the lives of so many people.
It is impossible to express how loved Katie was – or the positive difference she made to so many people’s lives… the impact she made and the incredible legacy that she leaves behind.
Katie was a very special woman indeed. She did what most of us can only dream of doing – she made a difference, and she left the world a better place. Her legacy will live on in all those she has loved and supported…
Katie died on the 12th December 2024 at Birmingham (St Mary’s) hospice. An estimated 100,000 people in the UK who could benefit from palliative care die without receiving it each year. Demand for this expert care continues to rise as people live longer, and with increasingly complex needs.
Katie was lucky enough to be one of the few able to spend her last days at Birmingham Hospice, we were able to use the family unit at the end, the staff were so supportive.
Just as Katie made a difference in her life, the staff and hospice made the difference at the end of hers.
We would like to honour that by raising as much money as we can. The hospice relies heavily on donations to keep providing the invaluable services they offer please help us make a difference worthy of the contribution Katie made to other people’s lives.
Here’s a little more about each of us who are taking the leap in memory of this very special person.
Becci, the step-daughter in law: Katie was the most wonderful, kind, and caring person I have ever met. She was not only an incredible person to me, but also the best role model for my boys. She was my go-to person—the one I could turn to, open up to, and who always gave me the best advice.
Life feels incredibly difficult and so sad without Katie here, but I am forever grateful for the many years of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories we shared.
I’m doing this in Katie’s memory—to thank her for everything she gave to me and my family, and to honor the care that Birmingham Hospice provided to her in her final days.
Katie, you have left a massive hole in our hearts. We miss you more than words can say. But your spirit, your kindness, and your beautiful way of living continue to guide me. I will always strive to follow your example and keep your light shining.
Aston, the step Grandson: I am thrilled to be doing this sky dive for such an amazing hospice which provided the best care which helped look after Katie in her last few weeks with us. To do this for one of the most special people in my life is such an honour, as Katie meant the world to me as she was always so caring and, took me and my brother in like we was her own grand children. Thank you to Birmingham hospice for your incredible efforts at what you do not only for Katie but for everyone you have looked after, I really hope we can raise as much money as possible for you.
Anna, the sister in law: I first met Katie when she was just three years old, and I had the privilege of watching her grow into the remarkable woman she became. She had a way of touching lives wherever she went. Now, we’re hoping to honour her memory by raising vital funds for the Hospice. I do enjoy a challenge, but this one is really testing my limits. I’m doing it for Katie—and for others who need care and dignity at the end of their lives.
Daisy one of the nieces: Katie was always a comforting and kind presence at family gatherings. I always felt accepted and enjoyed being around her. I’m really excited to do a skydive for such a good cause in honour of someone we all loved so much.
Amelia, another of the nieces: I'm doing this skydive to raise money for the hospice that cared for my late aunt Katie, and the incredible work they do for so many families. It's also my way of remembering her bright and bubbly spirit, which we all miss so much.
Imogen, the cousin: Katie was a loving, bubbly member of our family. I want to do this jump, to raise money, as a small token of appreciation for the support Birmingham Hospice gave Katie and our family at the end of her life.
Birmingham Hospice's vision is a future where everyone with a life-limiting illness will live and die with dignity and in comfort.
Offering personalised support at home, in local communities or at their two sites, helping people across Birmingham and Sandwell to live well with their illness, right up to the very end of life.
Tribute members (1)
- £5,060 of £3,000
