This October, families from across South Yorkshire will come together at Manvers Lake for the Autumn Memory Walk. A heartfelt event, organised by Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity, Barnsley Hospital Charity and Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospital’s Charity which aims to bring people together to remember and celebrate the lives of those who have been loved and lost. Among those taking part are Rebecca and Alex, who are walking in memory of their twin daughters, Lottie and Lillie.
In June 2019, the couple faced the unimaginable heartbreak of saying goodbye to their girls, who were born sleeping at 24 weeks at The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust. Despite the devastating circumstances, Rebecca and Alex recall the compassion and dedication of the hospital staff.
“The care my wife received at Rotherham Hospital was incredible,” Alex shared. “The maternity team went above and beyond in every aspect of care. We spent time with our girls in the Snowdrop Suite at the hospital, where me and my wife could make precious memories with Lottie and Lillie. We are forever grateful for the care we received during the most difficult time of our lives.”
Now, six years later, the family are honouring Lottie and Lillie’s memory by taking part in the Autumn Memory Walk. Not only will they be walking for their girls, but also to raise funds for Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity, supporting other families facing difficult times in Rotherham.
Walking in memory of a loved one offers families a way to celebrate their lives, reflect and join others in the community navigating life after loss. For Rebecca and Alex, it is a chance to carry their daughters’ memory forward with love and pride.
Rachael Dawes, Head of Fundraising at Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity said: “The Autumn Memory Walk is such a special and meaningful event for our community. It gives families the chance to remember their loved ones while coming together to support local NHS charities. We’re incredibly grateful to Rebecca and Alex, and to everyone who chooses to walk in memory, for helping us continue to make a difference for local patients and their families.”
The event, sponsored by RNN Group, takes place on Sunday 19th October at Manvers Lake. Early bird tickets are available to purchase for £12.00 per adult and £8.00 per child (under-15) including a t-shirt, medal and fundraising pack. The charities are encouraging walkers to raise sponsorship in memory of their loved ones to support other families in South Yorkshire.
To find out more or to sign up, visit http://www.therotherhamft.nhs.uk/charity/autumn-memory-walk.