Abseilers take plunge for children’s cancer charity
FUND-RAISERS abseiled from a 90ft bridge to raise money for children in the East Midlands battling cancer.
The event was the first of its kind organised by local children’s cancer charity Pasic, which supports about 400 families of children diagnosed with cancer and brain tumours in the region.
A total of 27 people took the leap at Millers Dale, near Buxton in Derbyshire, including Briony Porter, from Leicestershire, whose son Leo was diagnosed with leukaemia shortly after birth and spent the first seven months of his life in hospital.
“I’ve always wanted to do an abseil,” said Briony. “I was absolutely terrified but nowhere near as terrified as I was when we heard the words ‘your child has cancer’.
“Leo is now a happy healthy threeyear-old. I wanted to show how grateful we are to everyone who supported us, while doing something to help other families going through childhood cancer.”
Event organiser Harriet Bettany said: “As this is our first event we weren’t sure what to expect, but we were blown away by the enthusiasm and support shown.
“I’m so proud of everyone who took part, especially those who had a fear of heights.
“They’ve done something amazing to help children with cancer and together we’ve raised an incredible amount.”
The event raised more than £9,600. It will go towards the work of the charity which funds support workers, including at Leicester Royal Infirmary.
The charity also provides support groups for families and grants for those struggling to meet costs.
For more information, go to: