Amy’s Trek in Memory of Father

AN inexperienced climber will head for the skies in a trek up Mount Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania, in memory of her father.Amy Hartford was so touched by the care and dedication given to her dad, Billy, by the Butterwick Hospice, she wanted to show her appreciation.The 21-year-old, from Eaglescliffe, will attempt the trek on June 20, with all sponsorship going to the Stockton hospice.She said: “Before my dad went to the Butterwick, I had no idea what they did. The staff were so supportive and caring, I don’t know what we would have done without them.”They gave my dad his dignity back in the nine months he was there, and I want to show the staff how much it meant to me and my family.”I will be eternally grateful to the Butterwick for giving him and my family the support we very much needed.”So I am trying to raise as much money as possible to ensure other families like ours receive the support they need.”Billy Hartford was diagnosed with cancer of the kidney three years ago and it was removed. But the cancer returned, and he lost his battle with the disease on Boxing Day, last year, aged only 46.Amy has started training and will join other fundraisers on the challenge in June.Anyone wishing to sponsor her can log onto www. just giving. com/amyhartford There will also be a charity gig in aid of the hospice, when Amy’s friends take to the stage in Yarm.The Ghost Cats will perform in the Riverlounge on April 5, from 8pm. Tickets are 5 and can be purchased from the venue or from Jill Freeman Jewellers, in the High Street. All funds will go to the hospice.

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