Abseil in memory of Dad

Goring resident, 36-year-old Amy Knight, has signed up to the Santa Night iDrop to raise funds for St Barnabas House – the hospice that cared for her Dad, Harold, at the end of his life.

Taking place on Saturday 20 November, the Santa Night iDrop will see participants step out from the British Airways i360 pod, 450ft above Brighton beach, and take in the sweeping coastal views as they glide down through the open air.

Why take on the challenge?

Speaking about why she signed up to the Santa Night iDrop, Amy said: “My Dad, Harold, was diagnosed with a brain tumour at the age of 48. Shortly after his diagnosis, he had surgery, which we hoped would give him the all-clear, but it didn’t. But it did give him an extra six months to live.”

For the first few months after his surgery, Harold spent his time working through his bucket list and releasing his inner adrenaline seeker. “We walked over the O2, went white water rafting, flew in a helicopter – all sorts,” said Amy. “That time was just magical, making lasting memories together. Even the little things like going to the park suddenly meant so much more.”

Throughout this time, Harold was supported by St Barnabas House. “The team would come out and care for Dad at home, they were brilliant. They helped with pain management and his medication, and this support allowed him to continue with his life and still spend time with his family.”

The day after Boxing Day 2013, Harold’s health started to deteriorate. “Dad was driven to St Barnabas House in an ambulance and was taken straight to a private room. The care we received was just brilliant, it was all about him. St Barnabas House gave my Dad dignity, respect, and the time to say goodbye to his loved ones.”

The importance of awareness

With only a few weeks to go until the Santa Night iDrop, Amy is looking forward to the challenge ahead of her, “I know that Dad would be right there beside me if he could. Raising awareness of St Barnabas House is important to me as I know they rely on the public’s support so they can provide hospice care to those who need it. Many people don’t realise the number of services the hospice offers, from short break care to complementary therapies, I couldn’t thank them enough.”