A CareTech service user raised £200 for completing 60 lengths of a local swimming pool. The Foundation is delighted to match fund her donation to her chosen two charities: Cancer Research UK and Sue Ryder. Judith’s amazing efforts are the first fundraising efforts by a service user that the Foundation has match-funded!
Sandra, as well as the other support workers, were instrumental in helping Judith achieve her goals. Of Judith’s achievement, Sandra had the following to say:
‘We are very proud of the dedication that Judith has shown to completing these 60 laps in memory of her brother. We are delighted to be able to support her in overcoming some of the challenges she faced to raise money for a great cause.’
Below, Judith answers some questions about her fundraising efforts.
How did you get involved in this fundraising activity?
My brother sadly passed away from cancer and I wanted to do something to help celebrate his life.
What did you find most challenging and rewarding about this event?
Travelling to the pool was difficult at first but I learned how to go on the bus on my own with the help of the supportworkers. I most enjoyed getting fit and challenging myself to do more laps of the pool each week.
Why did you pick these charities to raise funds for?
My brother who died from cancer was looked after in a hospice based in Leeds.
How did your care workers help support you in completing the challenge?
My support workers helped me complete my challenge in many ways. Firstly, they helped me plan how to get there, i.e. from looking at which bus route to take. They then helped me practice taking the bus with them and then on my own.
As I can get overwhelmed, they also helped me find a quiet pool and the best time to go complete my laps.
My support workers went online and got the sponsorship forms for me. After that, they encouraged me to talk to people about sponsoring my activity.
They came swimming with me each week which gave me lots of encouragement. When I completed the 60 laps, the staff were there to cheer me on and then they had a little reception for me where they gave me a medal.
They told me about the CareTech Foundation Match funding scheme and helped me to apply.
How do you feel knowing that the CareTech Foundation supports you?
I feel extremely happy that they have matched my hard work as it means more people can benefit.