Two colleagues and close friends from the South Eastern Trust have conquered the Marie Curie Beat the Mournes Hike in memory of cherished loved ones while raising almost £2,000 for the charity.
Laura Ashmore-Fergie and Karen McMillan who work in the Trust’s Towards Zero Suicide Team, completed the challenging route through parkland, forests and the rugged Mourne Mountains to honour Laura’s parents, Alfie and Gladys Ashmore and their much loved colleague, Catherine Gilmore.
Explaining what inspired them to take on the challenge, the pair said, “We wanted to do something because of the difference Marie Curie made to the people we loved and to our families during an incredibly difficult time. Taking on the challenge felt like a meaningful way to say thank you while remembering those who are no longer with us.”
Laura explained how both her parents were cared for by Marie Curie Nurses during the end stage of their illnesses, “My Dad, Alfie, also worked for the Trust as a Painter before he retired. My Mum and Dad were kind, modest people who would have been embarrassed by any fuss being made about them. They were always there for others with kindness, generosity and quiet support. Family was at the heart of everything they did.”
Karen paid tribute to their colleague Catherine, describing her as an exceptional Nurse, “Her compassion, professionalism and genuine care for others touched the lives of so many patients, families and colleagues. Catherine’s kindness, warmth and sense of humour left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Beyond her Nursing career, she was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother who was immensely proud of her family who meant the world to her.”
Reflecting on the challenge, Laura and Karen said every step reminded them why they had signed up, “Completing the hike was both an emotional and proud moment. We knew we were doing it in memory of those we had lost while supporting such an important cause.
“Taking part in the hike was our way of remembering and honouring the lives of Catherine, Alfie and Gladys, while saying thank you for the care they received from Marie Curie. The care and support they provided to our loved ones made a real difference, we know many other families have benefitted in the same way.”
Both thanked all who contributed to their fundraising drive. “We are truly overwhelmed by the generosity of our friends, family, Service Users and colleagues and are incredibly grateful to everyone who supported our fundraising efforts.
“Raising £1,855 far exceeded our expectations and we hope the funds will help Marie Curie continue their invaluable work caring for people living with terminal illness and supporting those closest to them.”