Sue Ryder is calling on the people of Leeds to sign up for the adventure of a lifetime by taking part in the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge to help raise vital funds.
This commanding walk, which includes 5,000ft of ascent, will take place on Saturday 1 June, with all trekkers aiming to finish within a 12-hour period. Set against the stunning backdrop of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park, the route takes in the three peaks of Ingleborough, Whernside and Pen-y-ghent.
James Robson, 47, from Pudsey, will be pulling on his hiking boots for this iconic challenge in memory of his wife Denise, who spent her final days at Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice.
James will be joined on the 24.5 mile walk by sons Luke, 15 and Aaron, 13. He said: “We are walking in memory of my wife Denise. Denise was diagnosed with cancer in June 2023 and passed away two months later, aged just 43.
“She was an amazing wife and mother to our three children, Luke, Aaron and Cailtin. She was kind, fun, and loved spending time with her friends and family.”
Following her diagnosis, Denise spent time in hospital before being transferred to Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice in Headingley, which provides expert palliative care and support for people who are living with a life-limiting condition. James continued: “Being at the hospice made a huge difference to the family. The staff showed such kindness at a really difficult time.
“Denise was originally from Northern Ireland, so it was tricky with her family coming over. In the hospice, we found the whole environment was brilliant really. Everyone was really friendly, kind and supportive. The staff just knew how to look after you.
“It just allowed the family to relax a bit more and spend time together. At times, there would be up to seven or eight of us knocking around. The staff were always really welcoming – they’d cook for all of us – it was just brilliant. They also had the ability to inject a bit of humour at a dark time.”
James continued: “Denise went back into hospital and was then released back into Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice for about a week.
“I knew I wanted to do something to repay the kindness we’d been shown – that’s when I started thinking about doing the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge. It’s good for me and the family to have things to focus on. We love the countryside.”
James added: “Denise and I used to do a fair bit of walking. Nothing long distance.
“We used to enjoy walking in the Dales and the Lake District and more recently, in and around Pudsey as a family. My knees aren’t brilliant, so we’re going to arrange a few walks with friends to build up our stamina. It’s a nice opportunity to get some friends involved!”
Clare Humphreys, Community Fundraiser for Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice, said: “Do sign up if you’d like to take on a fantastic challenge and help raise vital funds for Sue Ryder.
“You can choose to take on Pen-y-ghent on its own or if you’re feeling brave, all three peaks! You’ll be helping us continue to provide the best possible care for people when they need it the most.”
To find out more information or to sign up, visit:
You can support James via his JustGiving page here.
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