As England celebrate progress in the 2024 Euros, our very own Surgical Assistant Director of Finance, Jo Hardcastle, is taking some big steps to improve her own health and wellbeing, by signing up to a wealth of events this year, after a tough time personally.

Jo said: “As you can probably guess, I am not built for sport and my eyesight restricts me from many a sport.  Ball games aren’t the best as I just don't see the balls. Cycling isn’t successful either as I tend to just run into cars.

“However, to improve my health, fitness and wellbeing, I have been building on my walking skills to get to a shuffle and then eventually a run. Weekly parkruns (or walks) have become a Saturday morning event with my daughter, and we have done them wherever we are, including Scotland, Bridlington, Norfolk and Huddersfield. 

“I’ve tacked the Forget Me Not Charity Colour Run and the Race for Life. I’ve done these not only for me, but also lots of friends and family who have faced challenges with cancer. 

“I’ll be taking part in the CHFT Hospital Walk later this week. Who knows, a 10k by the end of the year may also be possible. I can dream.

“Sport and fresh air have made a massive difference to myself and those around me, after such a tough year of losing my sister to suicide. I am quite proud of myself for getting off my bum.”

Later this week, line managers will be receiving a Summer of Sport and Wellbeing Special Line Manager Bulletin. The Workforce Team have pulled together a few ideas to build in what is a huge summer for everyone. There will be competitions and ideas to build engagement within teams and links to some of our CHFT dedicated wellbeing support. 

Read more about all what our Charity has been up to in their latest new-look newsletter.