Sharon Bailey and Martin Quigley braved gale-force winds and torrential rain to complete a 20-mile charity walk around Edale Valley in the Peak District. The duo undertook the challenge in memory of Keith Ball, Sharon's father, who passed away from leukaemia at the age of 73. Their efforts raised over £3,000 for East Cheshire Hospice, which provided care for Keith in his own home.
A Grueling Challenge
Sharon, a dog groomer, described the walk as a real test of endurance. “The walk was a real challenge because we had some harsh weather thrown at us as we reached the top of Kinder Scout,” she said. “The gale force winds and rain stayed with us for about five hours. The walk took nine hours and I’m glad I trained for it otherwise I don’t think I’d have completed it.”
The couple were part of an organised group and were accompanied by a guide, which Sharon noted was essential for safety in the difficult conditions.
Generous Support
Upon finishing, Sharon and Martin, a window cleaner, were met by family members. “There was a great sense of pride and exhilaration when we reached the finish,” Sharon said. “Our family were there waiting to meet us and we had a nice cold shandy in the little pub next door.”
She expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who donated. “We’d like to thank everyone who donated. People have been so generous, and we’ve been blown away by their kindness. The fact it was the hospice helped. Everyone can relate to it in one way or another.”
Hospice Care at Home
East Cheshire Hospice’s @Home service enabled Keith Ball, a painter and decorator, to receive end-of-life care in the comfort of his home. His parents previously ran Ball’s Chippy on Hibel Road. The fundraiser will support the hospice in continuing to provide such vital services to the community.
The couple have set up online sponsorship pages for those who wish to contribute: Martin's page at www.justgiving.com/page/martin-quigley-1 and Sharon's page at www.justgiving.com/page/sharon-bailey-5.
