Derbyshire Nurse Embarks on Double Running Challenge for Hospice in Grandad's Honour
A dedicated Derbyshire nurse is preparing to take on two significant running events this year to raise vital funds for a local hospice, all in loving memory of her cherished grandad. Megan Cartwright, aged 23 and hailing from Calow, will participate in the Chesterfield 10k this May and is rigorously training for the renowned Great North Run in September. Her efforts are aimed at supporting Ashgate Hospice, a charity that provides essential care across North Derbyshire.
Personal Motivation Behind the Miles
For Megan, this endeavour is profoundly personal. She is running to acknowledge the exceptional care and support delivered by Ashgate's Palliative Care Specialist nurses during her grandad Dave Cartwright's end-of-life care at home. Megan shared an incredibly close bond with her grandad, spending much of her childhood with him and her nana, June.
"My grandad Dave and I had a close relationship and we were always there for each other," Megan explained. "He was the most generous and caring man. Nothing was too much trouble."
Dave had a long career in the construction industry before retiring to care for his wife. After Megan's nana passed away in 2016, her grandad remained a central figure in her life, with frequent visits from Megan and her siblings.
A Heartbreaking Health Journey
In June 2024, Dave began showing signs of illness and was subsequently diagnosed with bladder cancer. Following chemotherapy, he received the all-clear in March 2025. Tragically, just days later, he suffered a spontaneous hemorrhagic stroke. Further medical investigations revealed he had myelodysplastic syndrome, a rare blood cancer affecting bone marrow.
Determined to spend his final days at home in Tapton, Dave returned with his family's support. Megan took time off from her nursing duties to help care for him alongside relatives.
"Within a couple of days, a specialist nurse from Ashgate visited my grandad at home," Megan added. "Within the first couple of weeks my grandad’s health improved massively, he was eating and walking around the house."
Invaluable Hospice Support
The Ashgate team provided regular visits, offering crucial support to Dave and his family and advising on where additional help could be found. Megan, despite being a nurse herself, found their guidance indispensable.
"Without them we wouldn’t have been aware of what services and support were available to us, even being a nurse myself," she said. "As a nurse, I was still carrying that role while caring for my grandad. The team reminded me that this was my grandad and not my patient. That really stuck with me. I really don’t know what we would have done without the support of the Ashgate team. I know I will be forever grateful for the positive impact they had at such a difficult time."
Giving Back Through Running
Megan now aims to give back by fundraising for the North Derbyshire hospice through her running challenges. The Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k will see participants take to the streets of the market town, with runners supporting Ashgate helping the hospice continue its vital work. Last year alone, the hospice cared for over 1,300 people in their own homes.
"I know my grandad would be very proud that I’ve decided to take on both the Chesterfield 10k and the Great North Run," Megan expressed. "I know he’ll be watching and cheering me on."
Her story highlights the profound impact of community healthcare and the power of personal tribute in driving charitable support.
