We'd like to share Gareth Keeling's story, a DHU colleague who is taking on an incredible challenge in memory of his mum, and raising vital funds for Macmillan Cancer Support, a charity that provided care and compassion when his family needed it most.
On Sunday 26th October, Gareth will compete in HYROX Birmingham, which is an intense fitness event combining 8 x 1km runs, each followed by a functional workout station involving challenges such as sled pushes, rowing, and wall balls. It’s a test of endurance and strength, both physical and emotional.
Gareth shared: “It has been a year since my mum passed away from Stage 4 lung cancer, and not a day goes by when I don’t stop and think about her. Losing her made me reflect deeply on who she was, the incredible impact she had on others, and how much of who I am today is because of her.”
His mum, a registered psychiatric nurse and Clinical Service Lead in Derby, dedicated her life to caring for others. Gareth says: “She had exceptional standards and a genuine passion for improving lives. Beyond her career, she was the most amazing mum anyone could ask for.
“What makes all of this even harder is knowing how much she still wanted to be here. My sister just had her daughter and Mum was so excited about becoming a grandmother. Family was everything to her; she was the heart of ours.”
Throughout her illness, Macmillan Cancer Support stood alongside Gareth’s family with compassion and care.
“I’ll never forget how much their help meant to us. That’s why I’m doing this, to honour her strength and to give back to those who support families like mine every single day.”
Gareth has already surpassed his initial fundraising target, but he’s pushing further to reach £1,000 in honour of his mum and Macmillan’s work.
“This one is for you, Mum.”
You can support Gareth’s fundraising and help him reach his goal here: https://gofund.me/a499195de