Family take part in Advent challenge
One of Martin Clinton's final requests to his three young grandchildren was to follow in his footsteps and run a marathon like he used to do.
It was an invitation Zain (10), Sofia (9) and Zara (7) could not turn down, each running at least a mile a day over Advent.
Their challenge raised funds for St Ann’s where Martin died of stomach cancer last August, just two months after his illness was diagnosed. The retired college principal, who grew up in Urmston, was 67.
Daughter Christine, from Cheadle, inherited a love of running from her father and also ran the equivalent of two marathons during December.
Dad began playing the ukelele after he retired and travelled to Hawaii. So the day the kids went into St Ann's to say their goodbyes they wore bright Hawaiian shirts, sang songs and played the ukelele. Staff had wheeled his bed out into the garden and were really helpful, making a huge effort and allowing us to have those final moments together. Dad had spent a lot of time in hospital and couldn't eat or drink. Understandably, visiting was extremely restricted and his time was limited, so going to the hospice for his last week meant we spent as much time with him as possible in a different environment. We felt comfortable and really well supported. Christine Clinton
We are so grateful to Christine, Zain, Sofia and Zara for running virtual marathons and raising money for the hospice. It means so much to us when the local community support St Ann’s in memory of someone they love. We really couldn’t carry on caring for our patients without you, so thank you so much. Rachel McMillan, Chief Executive of St Ann’s Hospice
The marathons were not the only tribute from the family.
A year ago the children also undertook a running challenge after their grandma Shahnaz Ahmed died from a stroke.
Has this has inspired you to take on your own fundraising challenge?
If you want to take in part in your own fundraising challenge for St Ann's we can help you with ideas and support you every step of the way find out more at the link below.
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