In his later years, my Dad developed Alzheimer's disease - a terribly debilitating disease which essentially robbed my Dad of his memories and made life extremely difficult at times for him and my Mum in particular. Woodmarket House offered him and my Mum the opportunity of respite and, although not a resident, my Dad visited Woodmarket for a day club every week and also spent about three weekends a year there so that my Mum could have a break from primary care. It was during one of these weekend stays that my Dad died.
In these tough economic times, I appreciate that most of us have less money to go around and with a million and one worthwhile charities out there, it is almost impossible to decide which one to choose. For my part, I can tell you that my Dad enjoyed his visits to Woodmarket House - it offered him a diversion from his illness and the opportunity to socialise with other local people, many of whom were experiencing similar challenges and often heartbreaking frailty and mental disorders. The staff at Woodmarket treated my Dad with dignity and respect and for that, I will always be indebted to them. Following my Dad's death I was determined to try and raise some money which I hoped would make the lives of the people at Woodmarket, both residents and non-residents, a little more comfortable. So, if you do have a little spare money and would like to donate, then please complete our on-line sponsor form - this is completely confidential and simply allows us to see who has been kind enough to pledge - we'll collect the money when we've finished the walk. Alternatively, just pick up the phone and give me a ring.
Just a few words about the walk itself - I've been a keen hillwalker since childhood, but have hankered after taking on one of the long distance national trails for many years. This seemed like the perfect opportunity - to combine a long held ambition with an opportunity to raise some cash for a really worthwhile cause. You can rest assured that, at 177 miles long, crossing three significant mountain ranges and having to carry everything we need for the nine day trek, the three of us will most certainly earn the donation you make to Woodmarket. We will be constantly updating this site as we continue our training and of course update it as we do the walk itself.
Finally from me, just a few words of thanks to my fellow walkers Simon and Richard. I was more than willing to take on this challenge on my own if needs be, but was moved to the point of tears when my mates said they'd do it with me and more to the point, put themselves through the agony for the same worthy cause in memory of my Dad. Thanks chaps.
Simon
Richard
