A determined group of CHFT maternity colleagues successfully completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge last Thursday, raising almost £11,000 for CHFT Charity's Maternity Bereavement Appeal.
Battling persistent rain and difficult underfoot conditions, the group took on the 24-mile route, climbing Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough in a remarkable display of teamwork, resilience and compassion.
Despite the wet weather, spirits remained high throughout the day, with colleagues supporting each other every step of the way. The challenge, which is known for its physical and mental demands, proved even tougher in the conditions, but the team pushed through to the finish together.
The fundraising effort has now surpassed £10,000, a fantastic achievement that will directly support bereavement services for families cared for by the maternity team.
The bereavement appeal aims to enhance support and facilities for families experiencing baby loss, helping ensure compassionate, personalised care at the most difficult of times.
Colleagues across the trust have praised the team for their commitment and determination, both in training for the event and in completing the challenge under tough conditions.
The team included Alice Baxter, Natalie Gledhill, Lily Fielding, Hannah Wood, Sian Wells, Rachael Cafferky, Susannah Kendall, Nicky Gibbon, Ann Frost and her sister Sally, Dionne Moore, Ann Taylor, Michelle Jones and Sophie Kibble.
Ward Clerk, Alice Baxter, said: "What a day. Walking the Yorkshire Three Peaks was tough enough, but battling torrential rain, relentless wind and thick fog made it a real test of mental and physical strength. There were moments when every step felt harder than the last, but whenever we struggled, we reminded ourselves why we were doing it.
"The miles were gruelling, the weather unforgiving, but we dug deep, kept each other going and pushed through to the finish together as a team.
"Sometimes it’s not about the conditions you’re facing, it’s about the reason you’re willing to keep going. Raising money for the Bereavement Suite carried us through every challenging mile and we are so proud to have raised almost £11,000 for a cause that will make such a difference at CRH. Well done team!"
There is still time to support the appeal, with donations continuing to come in following the team’s achievement.