Running the Herts 10K in memory of grandpa

Lionel Beckett (Image: Archant)

Taking part in a physical event for charity is often seen as a way to give back to an organisation who helped families and individuals through difficult times and sometimes it can help you feel closer to those you have lost.

Susie Hinchliff is running the race in memory of her grandpa, Lionel Beckett, for whom Rennie Grove provided care when he was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

Susie said: “My grandpa was diagnosed with a tumour in 2005 when I was just 13. At the time, I didn’t really understand what it meant, I figured he would just get better. I remember asking him not long before he passed away what he would like for his birthday and him replying that he would want another birthday.

“In his final days, Rennie Grove helped him when he needed palliative care. My grandpa had never been ill in his life and Rennie Grove were able to give him his final wish of being able to die at home.

“They made sure he was as comfortable as possible and supported us throughout the entire process, even after he had passed away. I had never lost anyone before so it was a very surreal experience for me.”

Rennie Grove Hospice Care provides 24/7 responsive end-of-life care to local patients with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses as well as bereavement support for families and a range of day services at Grove House.

Susie continued: “Rennie Grove is so important to me because, if I think back it’s hard to imagine what we would have done without the nurses who helped him. My family and I are so thankful for all their help and I’m sure there are lots of people who feel the same way as we do about Rennie Grove.

“I want to raise as much money as I possibly can so the nurses of Rennie Grove can continue to help people like my grandpa and other families like ours.

“I’d been thinking for a while that I would like to do something in his memory and I had stumbled across the Herts 10k and I thought it was perfect. He loved running and being outdoors and I have fond childhood memories of him taking me out for walks and taking me to fly my kite. I think he would be proud that I am taking part in this run for him. I originally wanted to raise at least £150 but I have actually managed to exceed my target, which is amazing, and there’s still time left before I even run to perhaps raise more!

“If you knew my grandpa you would have known how big his presence was and bizarrely sometimes I still feel like that presence is still here.

“My grandpa inspires me on a daily basis and if it weren’t for him I probably wouldn’t have had the courage to do a lot of things in my life. My family and I all still miss him dearly and in a way I feel like he’ll be at the finish line cheering me on.”

If Susie’s story has inspired you to take part in the Herts 10K, you can sign up here www.herts10k.com