DAREDEVILS took fund-raising to new heights when they broke records at the Myton Hospices’ annual sponsored abseil down Coventry Cathedral.
Some 118 courageous supporters of the hospice charity abseiled down the iconic building on Saturday (September 27), raising a record £82,518 to support local people living with life-limiting illnesses.
The daring challenge saw participants descend the city’s iconic landmark to help raise vital funds for the charity, with sponsorship still coming in.
Natalie Walker, Events and Campaigns Manager at The Myton Hospices, said: “We are incredibly grateful to each and every person who joined us on Saturday and braved their fears and stepped out of their comfort zone – quite literally – to raise vital funds for Myton.
“Your support means more people can access the expert, compassionate care they need and deserve. We cannot thank you enough.”
Coventry University Lecturers (left to right) Karen Heywood, Hayley Scutts, Donna Royle, Laura O’Brien, Carolyn Letchford, Jess Waldron and Kay Blackmore prepare for their daring abseil.Among the participants were lecturers from Coventry University.
The University’s Nursing Associates teaching team – including Donna Royle, Laura O’Brien, Jess Waldron, Karen Heywood, Carolyn Letchford, Kay Blackmore and Hayley Scutts – raised a total of £3,270.
The team was motivated to take the plunge due to their professional and personal experiences with end-of-life care. Two members have worked with The Myton Hospices, and many have seen the impact of its services first-hand.
Laura O’Brien, lecturer on Coventry University’s Nursing Associate course, said: “Myton has meant a lot to me for years. My daughters and I began fundraising around eight years ago after losing a close relative, often joining fun runs in Coventry and Warwickshire in neon wigs.
“More recently, my nan, Penny McClafferty, passed away peacefully at Coventry Myton Hospice, surrounded by family. The care was outstanding, and I’ll always be grateful for that final moment together.
“I’m incredibly proud of our Nursing Associates teaching team for taking part in the abseil – it was an amazing experience, made even more special by doing it with my work family. I’ve never felt fear like that before and was still shaking two hours after!”
Karen Heywood, Course Director for Nursing Associates Apprentices, said: “Each of us has been touched by Myton’s work.
“As nurses, nursing associates and midwives, we understand the importance of quality end-of-life care. It’s especially important to support Myton now, as we honour the compassion and care they offer during life’s most difficult moments.”
Donna Royle took part in memory of her uncle, and hoped the team’s efforts would raise awareness and vital funds for the charity.
She said: “We’re a close-knit team, and we believe a team that raises money together, stays together. This is our way of giving back to a charity that means so much to us and to Coventry.”
Chloe Hollingsworth, Course Director for Fashion, Brand and Communication, also took part.
She said: “I hope my fund-raising helps make someone’s life more comfortable and encourages others to support this amazing cause.”
The Myton Hospices thanked event partners Eight Point Two, who ensured the day ran safely and smoothly, and to MFS Solutions for their support with event setup.
A charity spokesperson added: “Volunteers and performers also played a key role in keeping energy high throughout the day and the charity couldn’t be more grateful for their support. Myton were also grateful for the support shown by the Lord Mayor of Coventry.
“Community events like the Coventry Cathedral Abseil make a huge difference in helping The Myton Hospices continue its vital work.”
The Myton Hospices also thanked Simon Coates Photography. Participants can view and buy their photos at www.mytonhospice.org/Abseil-2025.
This year, it will cost £15.3million for The Myton Hospices to continue providing free services at its hospices in Coventry, Rugby and Warwick to patients and their families across Coventry and Warwickshire.
With only 17 per cent of funding coming from the NHS, the charity must raise £12.7million – over £1 million every month – through donations and fundraising events.
Visit www.mytonhospice.org/Events for more information about taking part in future events.
