People across Leeds are being encouraged to take on a ‘Daily Dash’ this December to boost their wellbeing and raise funds for a good cause.
The December Daily Dash challenge calls on the public to get outdoors and walk, jog, run or roll 5k every day during the month, whatever the weather, to raise vital funds for Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice, the national bereavement, palliative and neurological care charity. The challenge was founded in 2015 by husband and wife Jackie and Mark Smith after Jackie’s dad received care from a Sue Ryder hospice at the end of his life. Inspired by the expert and compassionate palliative care he received, they decided to set themselves a challenge to raise money for the charity.
Since its inception, the festive fundraiser has continued to grow in popularity, with thousands of people in the UK and across the world lacing up their trainers or walking shoes in a bid to boost their physical and mental health during the festive period.
David Stonehouse, 52, from Leeds has signed up to this year’s December Daily Dash and hopes to encourage others to join him and sign up for the 5k every day challenge. David Stonehouse said:
“When I was growing up I attended St Michael’s Middle School, which was next door to Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice. So I have always been aware of the charity and we did a lot of events and activities to raise money for them. Later in life, I also had various family members who received care and support from the hospice, so it’s a cause that’s close to my heart. I’m a keen runner and have taken part in a number of running events in aid of Sue Ryder over the years, such as the Solstice Saunter at Bolton Abbey, so when I heard about the December Daily Dash in 2020 I thought it would be a really good thing to do during lockdown.
“Going out for a 5k run every day, especially when it was dark, wet and miserable, was a challenge, but I always felt so good afterwards. I enjoyed taking some time for myself during the day and by the end of the month I really noticed how much healthier and happier I was feeling. I’m really looking forward to taking part again this year and my partner is going to sign up too so we can do it together.”
It is free to take part in the December Daily Dash, but any money raised through fundraising will make all the difference to patients and families needing Sue Ryder’s specialist palliative, neurological and bereavement support.
Jen Wickham, Head of Fundraising at Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice said:
“December can be an incredibly busy and difficult month for many and so exercise might not be high up on the priority list. The December Daily Dash is a great way to take some time out for yourself, whilst keeping fit and helping to improve your mental health, all whilst raising money for an incredible cause. You can do it your own way. On your own, with your furry companion, or in a group. Fast or slow. Morning, noon or night. However you do the December Daily Dash, when you go the distance, you make the difference.”
Sue Ryder supports people through the most difficult times of their lives. Whether that’s a terminal illness, the loss of a loved one or a neurological condition – we’re there when it matters. For over 65 years our doctors, nurses and carers have given people the compassion and expert care they need to help them live the best life they possibly can.
In order to continue to provide and develop our services and expert care we rely predominantly on income from our charity shops, fundraising activities, and donations from members of the public. For more information please visit www.sueryder.org
So make December yours, and at the same time help us to be there for people when it matters most. For more information and to sign up, please visit www.decemberdailydash.com or email: december.dailydash@sueryder.org
