A Worcester family is marking a loved one’s 50th birthday with a 50km fundraising walk in her memory.
Sabrina and Gary Ingram, along with their sons Jay and Liam, will take on the challenge on Sunday, October 18, raising funds for St Richard’s Hospice in memory of Mel Baker.
Mel, Gary’s sister, died in December 2014, but would have turned 50 this year.
She was cared for at St Richard’s in December 2014 and the following year the family began fundraising to show their gratitude for the care and support she and her family received.
They’ve already raised almost £13,000 in her memory.
Mrs Ingram said: “This will mark our 12th annual charity event, which began when Jay was seven.
“He heard a talk at primary school from St Richard’s, where they spoke about the importance of raising funds, and he decided he wanted to do something to make a difference.
“Jay’s first challenge was a two-hour sponsored silence.
“Since then, other members of the family have joined in with running, swimming and cycling challenges.
“We’re incredibly proud of Jay and Liam for everything they’ve done in memory of their Auntie Mel.
“She would be as proud of both of them as we are.”
The family will walk between St Richard’s Hospice charity shops in Kidderminster, Worcester, and Malvern, finishing at the hospice on Wildwood Drive in Worcester.
Mrs Ingram said: “Mel is missed so much every day, and this is our way of remembering her and thanking St Richard’s Hospice for everything they did to look after Mel and the family in her final weeks.
“This December will mark 12 years since we lost Mel.
“We think of her every day.”
St Richard’s Hospice is an independent charity providing free, specialist care for adults with life-limiting illnesses and support for their families across Worcestershire.
Abby Holliday, director of business and income generation at St Richard’s, said: “We’ve loved hearing about the imaginative challenges the Ingram family has completed over the years.
“We’re incredibly lucky to have families like theirs who choose to fundraise for us year after year.”
Donations can be made through www.justgiving.com/page/sabrina-ingram-12.
