Rachael Addy, activities coordinator at Deangate Care Home in Towngate, Mapplewell, has raised nearly £3,000 for residents and dementia support after completing three high-adrenaline challenges in just four weeks. Her efforts included an abseil down Liverpool FC's Anfield Stadium, a bungee jump from the Larpool Viaduct in Whitby, and a climb over London's O2 Arena.
Fundraising for Residents and Dementia Support
The money raised will support Deangate's residents' activity fund and BIADS Barnsley, a charity that provides meaningful experiences for elderly residents and supports people living with dementia. The cause is particularly close to Rachael's heart following her mum Ann's recent Alzheimer's diagnosis.
Rachael said: "The challenges pushed me further out of my comfort zone than ever before. Alzheimer's has always meant a lot to me, but now it has an even bigger meaning for our family. It was an emotional journey, but it's all been worth it to raise money for causes that mean so much."
Residents Follow Every Step
Residents at the home followed Rachael's journey closely, gathering to wish her luck before the challenges and later watching footage together. Resident Martin Bradley, 66, said: "You wouldn't get me doing that - not in a million years." Brenda Pratt, 92, added: "I can't believe you've done that for us."
After the bungee jump, Rachael received a call from her mum, who said: "I don't know where you get the strength and courage from. I am so proud of you. It's absolutely tremendous what you do for your residents and for people like me living with Alzheimer's."
Rachael reflected: "Sometimes you have to put your trust in others, and that's exactly what our residents do every day. It can be frightening and full of uncertainty, but with the right support, anything is possible."
Fundraising Total and Planned Use
The fundraising total currently stands at around £2,800, with more donations still coming in from sponsorship forms across Barnsley. The money will go towards trips for residents, including visits to Yorkshire Wildlife Park and Cleethorpes, as well as new sensory equipment for the home's dementia unit.
Rachael Dawson, home manager at Deangate Care Home, said: "Everyone at Deangate Care Home is incredibly proud of Rachael. What she has achieved is nothing short of inspiring, not only in completing these challenges but in raising such a fantastic amount for our residents and for people living with dementia. It has meant so much to the ladies and gents here to follow her journey, and the difference this money will make to their experiences and wellbeing cannot be overstated."
Anyone wishing to support the fundraising can still donate via Rachael's GoFundMe page.
