South Coast Challenge in memory of Mum

Setting off on Saturday 4 September, James, accompanied by five friends, will be trekking 100km in just 30 hours.

While taking on this endurance challenge, which starts at Beachy Head, goes through Devil’s Dyke and along the coast before arriving in historic Arundel, the groups main motivation is to raise vital funds for St Barnabas House, who cared for James’ Mum at the end of her life.

Last year at the age of 66, James’ Mum, Carolyn, was diagnosed with stomach cancer. “From diagnosis to her death was 11 days,” says James. “She was feeling unwell one day and being sick, so my Dad rushed her to hospital where she had some scans.”

At the hospital, the family soon found out that Carolyn had two tumours on her stomach. After a few days in the hospital, she was then transferred into St Barnabas House where she spent her final few days.

“St Barnabas House gave us extra support and they took the pressure off us as a family. We were able to go in and visit Mum and when we were at home, they’d always keep us up to date with what was going on.”

“The support from St Barnabas House didn’t stop after Mum passed away. My Dad, John, who was married to my Mum for 44 years, still receives letters from the hospice now. And we know that if we ever want someone to talk to, their counselling service is always there for us.”

Speaking about why the group is taking on a walking challenge for St Barnabas House, James said, “My Mum loved walking, so we wanted to do this for her.”

To support James in his challenge, please visit: www.justgiving.com/jim-willett1